by Sylene Argent
In an effort to earn the Seeonee Award – a top award for a Cub – Candice Heinrichs, a Howler Cub in the 2nd Cottam Scouts, recently hosted four fundraising events to support the Ronald McDonald House in Windsor.
On Saturday, Heinrichs hosted the last of her fundraisers, by selling hot chocolate and sweet treats under the pavilion at Cottam Rotary Park, while Rotarians hosted their annual Christmas tree sales.
When the young Cub was planning how she was going to host a fundraiser for a charity as part of earning the prestigious Seeonee Award, she hoped to be able to raise at least $500 for Ronald McDonald House, but also wanted to reach even higher and dreamed of raising twice that.
After four successful fundraisers, she surpassed both goals and raised an incredible $1340, which made her proud of not only her efforts, but everyone who went out of their way to support her in her mission.
“We did well,” Heinrichs said, greeting supporters as they bought hot chocolate and treats from her fundraiser on Saturday. She is looking forward to being able to present a cheque to representatives at the Ronald McDonald House later this week.
Her first fundraiser involved engaging fellow students at Gosfield North Public School about the Ronald McDonald House and the important service it provides to families of youngsters needing to stay at the hospital to recover or receive needed treatments. She asked her peers to participate in a loonie drive, and could not believe the support she received.
Later, she also hosted a loonie drive amongst fellow Scout members, and gave thanks to her brother, who helped with the event as she ended up sick and was unable to attend herself.
On Friday, November 27, Heinrichs hosted a homemade baked goods and hot chocolate sale at Once Upon a Time Child Care Centre.
At first, Heinrichs said she was nervous to host the fundraisers as she was not sure if she would get the support she hoped for, but was overwhelmed with enthusiasm her family members, friends, fellow Cubs, and school peers showed towards her project.
“It was really exciting,” she said. “I learned a lot.”
She is looking forward to utilizing the experience she obtained this year in supporting her brother when he goes through the process of earning the award next year.
In order to earn the Seeonee Award, a Cub has to complete 10 adventure skills, 30 community service hours, and a meaningful community service project.
She chose to support the Ronald McDonald House in Windsor for her meaningful community service project, because she said her aunt needed to stay there when she was a baby. She felt compelled to support the charity, so it can continue to help other families in need.