On Saturday, September 17th, Melissa’s Sunshine Camp will host its Second Annual Fundraiser Rally.
Last year the non-profit, which enriches the lives of those living with intellectual difficulties in the Upper Saint Lawrence, raised funds toward their programming with a car rally. This year’s event will take place on foot, bike or rollerblade around the town of Huntingdon, promising a morning of fun in support of this great community resource.
The rally will kick off at 9am and last until lunchtime, and is free and open to everyone. The concept of the rally is to create a team and complete the challenges at various pit stops around Huntingdon. Teams can be made up of families of all ages. Last year the organization was pleased to have 87 participants and this year the organizers are hoping for even more involvement.
There are multiple goals for the fundraiser, explains organizer and special educator Sonia Viau, “The idea behind the event is for participants to discover the various businesses and services in Huntingdon, to offer a fun activity that promotes a healthy lifestyle, and one that also encourages people to work as a team. We also aim to educate people about our organization, which has been offering services to handicapped people since 1993.”
Melissa’s Sunshine Camp currently runs a Daily Activity Service for clients 21 years and older, as well as many family support and recreational activities throughout the year, including: bowling, weekend and summer camps, movie days, seasonal parties, and field trips. Mary Shewchuk, Sue Irving, Lorrayne O’Connell and Nancy Gunion are the founders of Melissa’s Sunshine Camp. The organization is named after Mary Shewchuk’s daughter Melissa and was originally operated from their family farm in Hinchinbrooke before moving to its current location at 24 York Street at the Huntingdon Adult Education Community Centre (HAECC).
Organizers would like to remind participants that bikes and rollerblades are available to be borrowed from the Sport Depot. Snacks and T-shits will be for sale and the public is invited to attend, participate, and make donations of any amount.
The event will take place on Saturday, September 17th at 9am at 24 York St (the start and end location). For more information about this event and other programming call 450-264-6340 or visit: www.campsoleildemelissa.weebly.com
