A Murano, disaster relief and the Harlem Shake. Oh my!
Tuesday, March 12, 2013 by: Connie Carello
At the last City Council meeting Mayor Debbie Amaroso proclaimed March to be Red Cross month alongside of District Branch Manager Diane Lajambe.
With a series of events transpiring over the course of the next few weeks, Red Cross is anticipating the participation of the community to assist in their fundraising effort.
On March 16, the non-for-profit will be concluding their Northern Raffle at Cambrian Nissan from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Then, in the evening, representatives from the Red Cross will be at the Greyhound game to play some Chuck-A-Puck.
Tickets for the raffle can be purchased until March 17 at various locations including the Red Cross, Cambrian Nissan and the Station Mall.
On March 27 the ticket that wins a 2013 Nissan Murano or $25,000 cash prize will be drawn.
Second prize is a 2013 Polaris Sportsman H.O. valued at $8,000 and there are five third prize draws of $1,000 each.
Although there have been close to 1,200 tickets sold, the organization is still under target and looking for community members to take part in the cause.
“People can call or visit the office and speak with the Staff to get involved,” Community Services Coordinator Christina Bruno said, “There are many programs that are recruiting for volunteers – Community Kitchens, Disaster Management, Transportation, Friendly Visiting, Youth and Fund Development Volunteers to assist with our fundraising efforts.”
Such programs are responsible for fire and flood safety, the availability of a course designed for violence and abuse education known as Respect Ed, home maintenance services for the elderly, and injury prevention training courses including both CPR and First Aid.
The annual event is in its 18th year and is an opportunity for the organization to provide the community with information on program delivery expectations, fund development and disaster management.
On March 20 from 1 to 3 p.m., the Red Cross will be hosting an Open House where a video showcasing several volunteers and providing explanations about a variety of services available across Ontario will be featured.
By meeting with staff and volunteers the organization intends to encourage others to “make a difference in the community” said Community Services Director Jenni McDonald.
To launch their month-long campaign, the local Canadian Red Cross participated in a “Harlem Shake” dance video to grab some public attention and get people moving.
Click here to view the video.
