A fundraiser for the “Li’l Eagles,” Urban Multicultural Aboriginal Youth Centre, and the OPP’s D.A.R.E. program, the United Native Friendship Centre’s four-day “canoe-a-thon” slated Aug. 4-7 already is shaping up to be bigger than ever.
“After last year’s success, this year it’s been pretty easy to get people participating,” said R.J. Comeau, a Health and Wellness Youth Intervention worker.
“Our goal is to have 10 canoes. We already have eight, which is double what had last year,” he added.
While organizers only have just begun to seek sponsorships from local individuals and businesses, it stands to reason that with the surge in participants, it’s highly likely the group can exceed last year’s fundraising total of $3,000, noted Comeau.
“And we have an underlying challenge to the fundraising. Since it’s co-ed this year, it’s going to be guys against girls to see who can raise the most money,” he remarked.
The canoes, carrying two people each, will leave the McIrvine Road boat launch here on the morning of Monday, Aug. 4 and arrive in Rainy River on the afternoon of Thursday, Aug. 7.
After being on the two previous “canoe-a-thons,” Comeau said he’s learned a lot about what to expect on what can be quite a gruelling trip.
“‘Plan’ is probably the best advice I can give,” he remarked. “Look at the dangerous area, such as the rapids.
“But it’s tough to say what it will be like this year, with the water looking so low right now,” he added.
Anyone wishing to participate in the “canoe-a-thon,” or wanting to pledge a participant, can contact Comeau at 274-0561.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
