A Message from the
Executive Director
As we reflect over the past
year, we would like to thank everyone for their support of
Investing in Children. We have had many accomplishments to
celebrate and we share some of those in this current issue
of our emailer. Our work would not be possible without the
support of our volunteers, Board of Directors, funders and
community partnerships. Together with our dedicated staff,
we build a strong organization that meets that continues to
meet the needs of our children in our community.
As we look ahead to 2009, plans
are well under way for another amazing year. On behalf of
all of us at Investing in Children, we would like to wish
you and your family a safe and happy holiday season. In these
current times, let us remember that the most important gift
that we can give one another lies within us.
Sincerely,
Anita Gilvesy
Executive Director
Community
Service Club Story
Investing in Children's Community
Service Clubs help young students learn how to make a positive
impact on their school community. The students at the East
Williams Community Service Club in Nairn are a great example:
In September, a 9 year old East
Williams student named Antdrew was diagnosed with leukemia.
The community service club, under the guidance of supervisor
Sarah Keays, organized a fundraiser for Andrew called “
Go Orange Go Bald”. The kids sold orange drink and popcorn
to raise funds for Andrew’s wish. Andrew picked the
colour orange because it is the colour of his favourite tractor.
As an added incentive, Sarah promised to dye her hair orange
if they met their fundraising goal.
The communities of Nairn, Parkhill and Ailsa Craig also become
involved in a fundraising dinner, dance and silent auction.
The tickets sold out within 30 minutes and raised more than
$17,000.
Andrew is scheduled for a bone marrow transplant in December.
London
Gets Mugged 2
Following last year's successful
fundraiser, Investing in Children is hosting London Gets Mugged
2 on Thursday, February 5, 2009. The event, held at Jonathon
Bancroft Snell Gallery, will feature a series of coffee mugs
decorated by prominent and interesting Londoners, a wine bar,
coffee and other treats. Use your twonies to vote for your
favorite mugs, and bid in the silent auction to take it home!
To order your tickets, please
call Peggy at (519) 433-8996 ext. 224 or e-mail info@investinginchildren.on.ca.
Leadership
Camp 2008
Investing in Children's Leadership
Camp was held from October 6-9 at Stevenson Children's Camp.
Almost 300 students representing 36 schools from the Thames
Valley District School Board and the London District Catholic
School Board took part in a series of challenges designed
to improve their leadership, teamwork and communication skills.
The students attending on October
9 were treated to a special appearance by Deb Matthews, Minister
of Children and Youth Services, who offered inspiring words
on leadership.
Thank you to Merrymount Children's
Centre, the London Food Bank, City Orchards, Johns Fruit and
Vegetables and the Optimist Club of Middlesex-London for their
support.
Children's
Nutrition Network Update
The Ministry of Children and
Youth Services has made additional funding available for student
nutrition programs. A total of 57 London and area schools
are to receive funding. A total of $173,884.64 is being spent
on London and area schools with $86,131.00 going towards infrastructure
for schools to have the tools necessary to provide program
such as fridges, stoves, microwaves, etc. and $87,753.64 is
being spent on program costs or food supplies perishable and
non-perishable. A breakdown of the costs is as follows:
Phase 1 (33 schools)
Infrastructure $38,898.00 Program $62,390.64 Total $101,288.64
Phase 2 (24 schools)
Infrastructure $47,233.00 Program $25,363.00 Total $72 596.00
Phase 1 and 2 totals
Infrastructure total $86,131.00 Program total $87,753.64 Grand
total $173,884.64
|
