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15th Annual Festival of Trees – Another Successful Event in Support of the Kenora & Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation

Kenora – For the past 15 years in December Festival of Trees is held in support of the Kenora and Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation. This year’s event raised over $ 34,000 to support operating expenses for the Community Foundation. “The 15th Festival of Trees fundraiser was held at the Lake of the Woods Museum where the very first Festival of Trees was held” said event co-chairs, Patti Edie and Allyson Pele.

This year’s event began with “An Enchanted Christmas” gala held on Friday, November 30. Many thanks to the thirteen (13) tree decorators and the many businesses and artists who contributed auction items both live and silent. “We were thrilled to include the wonderful art created by our talented art community in this year’s event” said event co-chair Allyson Pele. “This was a new feature for the gala and was very well received!”

The festivities continued on December 1st with Community Day. Festival of Trees is a tradition for many families who come to see the beautifully decorated trees, listen to our talented musical groups as well as enjoy an elegant tea and of course visit with Santa. “Festival of Trees has become a tradition for many people. We are so pleased to be able to host this event. It is only possible with the support of many volunteers, and the sponsors who make it happen” said event co-chair Patti Edie. “Planning for next years event begins almost immediately after the event, with regular planning meetings starting in late August / early September.”

“It really does take a community to make this event come together and be so successful. The funding raised helps to support the operating costs of the Community Foundation which in turns supports the many charities in our communities” said Allyson Pele.

Festival of Trees typically attracts hundreds of guests, this year was no different, with an estimated 600 guests attending.

Since 2004, the event has raised $ 392,089 for the Community Foundation.

The Kenora and Lake of the Woods Regional Community Foundation is a volunteer driven, public foundation, which accepts donations and builds on endowment funds which are held in perpetuity, providing income growth that will always be available for community needs. The investment income earned on the funds is granted to local registered charities that enhance the quality of life, in line with the donor’s wishes. Our catchment area includes the City of Kenora and the neighbouring communities of Reddit, Minaki, and Sioux Narrows – Nestor Falls, First Nations and the unincorporated communities surrounding Lake of the Woods. Since 2004, thanks to our generous donors, the Community Foundation holds $4.7 million in endowed funds, with total assets at $5.2 million. Over $2 million has been granted to fifty+ different local charities.

The Community Foundation Office is located at Westland Insurance at 101 Park Street, Kenora, Ontario. Ms. Betty Wires, Interim Executive Director can be reached at info@klwcf.ca and by telephone at 807-467- 4427.

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