Tag Archives: Volunteer Opportunities

Kiwanis Club seeks to re-establish in Carleton Place, focuses on youth support

A fledgling Kiwanis in Carleton place is seeking new members so they can register as a Club. Shown here are about two thirds of the current members from Left: Jen Thom, Joyce Hamlin, secretary, Shelley Manson, president, Kyle Weaver, membership coordinator, Cheryl Cypkar, Phil Rossy, club builder, Kathy Jones and Chris Lorincz, publicity and promotion coordinator. Photo credit: Heddy Sorour.
HEDDY SOROUR

The Kiwanis Club is making a comeback in Carleton Place, hoping to rebuild its local chapter and once again support children and youth in the community.

Focused on improving young lives, Kiwanis is a global non-profit with more than 300,000 members worldwide. There are about nine clubs in Eastern Ontario, from Pembroke to Cornwall and Ottawa, with nearly 400 members.

“Kiwanis works directly with children and youth who may be struggling with poverty, isolation or stress,” said Joyce Hamlin, club secretary. “What’s unique is that we help them learn leadership skills and support their own peers within the community.”

Carleton Place once had a Kiwanis Club, but it folded about 30 years ago for reasons current members say are long forgotten. A dedicated group of 11 volunteers is working to secure the 15 members needed under Kiwanis International rules to be officially recognized as a club.

“There’s a real need here,” said Shelley Manson, club president. “I’ve lived in Carleton Place for 20 years and I’ve seen kids without proper clothing, and some turning to drugs at an early age. Drugs are a big problem in our community.”

Club members plan to build relationships with families and youth to identify needs and provide support.

“We talk to parents and children to ask what they need,” Manson said. “Many parents are struggling, and we want to help.”

While not yet formally recognized, the Carleton Place group has partnered with other clubs in the region. Members recently teamed up with Kiwanis Kanata/Stittsville to assist with the Kids4Kids Talent Showcase, helping to run the concession stand and organize the event as practice for future local projects.

The group’s ultimate goal is to establish a Key Club at Carleton Place High School.

“Key Clubs are autonomous student groups that organize their own fundraising, event planning and community service with Kiwanis support,” said Phil Rossy, a club builder with Kiwanis Ottawa who is mentoring the Carleton Place chapter.

The program would allow students to volunteer and learn about leadership and community service under the supervision of a teacher.

Kiwanis also partners with other local service groups, providing computers for families in need, subsidizing summer camp costs, or donating funds to local youth clubs.

The Carleton Place group meets every two weeks on Monday evenings at 7 p.m. at Zion Memorial Anglican Church. The most recent meeting was May 12.

“Anyone interested can simply show up at a meeting or email us at kiwaniscpmm@gmail.com,” said Chris Lorincz, publicity and promotions coordinator.

Perth aims to reclaim status as a premier theatre destination

Perth’s Studio Theatre
Perth’s Studio Theatre. Photo credit: Submitted [Jesse Denton].
LAURIE WEIR

The Town of Perth is setting the stage for a cultural renaissance as the Perth Theatre Project unveils an ambitious strategic plan to re-establish the community as a leading theatre destination in Eastern Ontario.

In a presentation to the Perth council on Jan. 14, Robert FeDuke, president, and Deborah Watring-Ellis, chair of the Business Committee and Project Lead — Perth Theatre Project, presented their Strategic Plan 2025-2035, and outlined their vision for the next decade, highlighting their determination to rebuild Perth’s reputation as the foremost hub for live theatre between Montreal and Toronto.

Perth has a storied history as a theatrical hotspot, with roots stretching back to 1816. However, the COVID-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow to the arts community, leading to the closure or withdrawal of two of the town’s three major theatre companies. Studio Theatre Productions is now the only full-time theatre company remaining, operating from its permanent venue at 63 Gore St.

“Perth Theatre Project is proud to carry forward the town’s rich artistic legacy,” Watring-Ellis said. “We aim to deliver high-quality productions at community theatre prices while expanding our offerings to engage a broader audience.”

The organization’s newly announced strategic plan for 2025–2035 includes a focus on increasing year-round programming, expanding outreach efforts, and leveraging the town’s rich cultural history to attract visitors and enhance the local economy.

The project’s success promises wide-ranging benefits:

  • Enhanced Cultural Access: Local residents can enjoy professional-quality theatre and film without travelling to larger cities like Ottawa.
  • Tourism Growth: High-quality productions are expected to draw visitors to Perth, boosting local businesses.
  • Skill Development and Volunteering: The initiative offers opportunities for community members to learn artistic and technical skills while fostering teamwork.

Studio Theatre Productions also plans to expand its existing programming, including the popular Film Club Friday series, which showcases international and independent films while supporting the local library.

They have set several key objectives for 2025, including:

  • Conducting a complete venue needs assessment to address space limitations.
  • Expanding programming to include at least eight year-round productions and more workshops.
  • Increasing attendance through targeted marketing campaigns aimed at communities within an hour’s drive of Perth.
  • Recruiting new board members and volunteers with leadership potential.

Financial goals include generating $175,000 in revenue and launching a savings fund to invest in expanded facilities and staffing.

While not seeking financial support from the council at this stage, they emphasized the importance of collaboration with local organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce and the BIA, to realize its goals.For more information about upcoming productions and volunteer opportunities, visit Studio Theatre’s website.

Tim Hortons Bowl for Kids Sake celebrates 45 years in Lanark County

Photo credit: Submitted.
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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County (BBBSLC) is excited to once again be partnering with the local Tim Hortons restaurants for the Tim Hortons Bowl for Kids Sake event on February 22nd, 2025. Last year this event raised over $85,000, with more than 400 bowlers coming out to support the event.  Title and Corporate sponsors ensure that all funds raised through event pledges go directly to fund mentoring programs right here in Lanark County.

The event is a straight forward fundraiser – interested participants can call the Big Brothers Big Sisters office and register their group. Each team receives a kit that includes pledge sheets, and is encouraged to raise funds to support the agency’s mentoring programs. Teams book a lane through the agency and then come out and bowl on the February 22nd in one of three locations generously supporting the fundraiser; Gratton Lanes in Smiths Falls, Vision Lanes in Carleton Place and Spare Room Bowling Lanes in Perth.  Don’t worry if you’re not a bowler – it’s a fun time where neighbours come together for a great cause! Remember – It’s not about the bowling!

Your team can be as small as two people or as large as your whole company or large family. There is no minimum amount to raise. There is room for everyone, and every dollar matters. 

For teams participating in Tim Hortons Bowl for Kids Sake, funds can also be raised on line, which makes asking for money a whole lot easier!

Photo credit: Submitted.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County is a not for profit volunteer driven organization which helps children develop to their unique potential through consistent, dependable and unconditional adult friendship. The agency has been a part of the Lanark County community for more than 50 years. Over that time thousands of children have seen the benefit of a caring adult; someone to share their lives with, someone that they can confide in and look up to.

Local Corporations have covered all the overhead costs of the event, which means that all funds raised by teams go directly to fund mentoring programs for local children. These sponsors include; Tim Hortons as Title Sponsor, Corporate Sponsors, Rob Garvin, local Realtor® RE/MAX Affiliates, Canadian Tire, Hinton Dodge Chrysler, Ascend LLP, Campbell’s Trucking, Your TV Cogeco, Eaton, Rideau Home Hardware, Ogilvie’s Auto, Mike Fair Chevrolet, TD Bank, Smiths Falls Kinsmen Club and Alley Sponsors, Hunt Dopson Insurance, Wes Zacharuk Co-operators Insurance, and Rob Roy’s Pub. Please support businesses that support mentoring in Lanark County.

For more information about getting involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County or participating in The Tim Hortons Bowl for Kids Sake, please contact the agency office at 613-283-0570 or check out their website at lanark.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca lanark.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca

Tentative plans for Skate the Lake on ice as organizers set to prep Portland oval

Frozen lake, Portland, Ontario.
Photo credit: Skate the Lake Facebook page.
LAURIE WEIR

The beloved Skate the Lake event may return to Portland Bay this winter, though potentially in a different format.

John Bongers, president of Portland Outdoors, the organization behind the event, said the team is working hard to ensure something happens this year, even if it’s not the traditional two-day event.

John Bongers
John Bongers, president of Portland Outdoors, is looking to start work on the Portland Oval in preparation for a Skate the Lake weekend. He needs some help though. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.

“There is some really good ice,” he said in a phone interview on Saturday, Jan. 11. “We’ll be having the Skate the Lake challenge for sure, but it’s not likely we’ll have an official event weekend.”

For nearly two decades, Skate the Lake has drawn skaters and winter enthusiasts from across Ontario and beyond, but the event has been cancelled the past two years due to unseasonably warm conditions.

Bongers acknowledged the challenges of organizing such an event with fluctuating weather and limited resources.

He is seeking help, as both he and co-organizer Marco Smits have other commitments that will limit the time they can spend maintaining the ice.

“We need help with equipment repairs, driving the Olympia and the sweeper,” Bongers said. “We’ve been in touch with skaters and volunteers to keep everyone updated.”

This year’s event is expected to have a more casual format, focusing on community connection rather than competitive races or large-scale programming.

Early next week, Bongers plans to check the ice thickness.

“I haven’t cut any blocks yet, but I expect to do that on Monday,” he said, adding that the team will have a better idea of when the one-kilometre oval can open after that.

In past years, Skate the Lake has featured speed skating races up to 100 kilometres, including 50-kilometre, 25-kilometre, and 5-kilometre events, as well as one-kilometre family skates. Separate ice sections have been cleared for younger children to skate and for learning to curl. Fire pits were also available to keep attendees warm.

However, all of that remains uncertain this year as organizers work out the logistics. Traditionally, Skate the Lake has taken place on the last weekend of January.

“At this point, we are not speculating about an actual Skate the Lake weekend or a date because it’s just too early for that,” Bongers said.

In the meantime, Bongers is encouraging anyone with time or resources to contribute to reach out directly.

Call him at 613-329-0902 if you can lend a hand, drive a machine, or assist with equipment repairs.

Community Connections Fair: Building bridges in Carleton Place

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The Carambeck Community Centre is excited to host the inaugural Community Connections Fair on November 9th, from 10 AM to 2 PM. This free event aims to unite residents of Carleton Place by showcasing a variety of free and low-cost programs and services available in the community.

Join us at the Carambeck Community Centre for a day filled with opportunities to learn about local resources that can help you build connections, get assistance, or volunteer. Whether you’re seeking support, wanting to contribute, or simply looking to meet like-minded neighbors, the Community Connections Fair has something for everyone.

The Community Connections Fair is about recognizing that we all have something to give and times where we need support; together we can co-create the community we aspire to be part of.

In addition to information booths and resources, the event will feature activities for children, ensuring a fun day for families. 

Event Details:

  • What: Community Connections Fair
  • When: November 9th, 10 AM – 2 PM
  • Where: Carambeck Community Centre, Carleton Place
  • Cost: Free to attend

Everyone is welcome to attend, and we encourage residents to come out, get involved, and see how they can make a difference in their community. Let’s come together to strengthen our connections and enhance the vibrant community spirit of Carleton Place.

For more information, please contact organizers at arizaconsulting1@gmail.com.

‘Wonderful experience’: Montague Township seeking councillor applications for seat left vacant by Morgan Kenny

Morgan Kenny.
Montague Township will be seeking a community appointment to the councillor position left vacant with the resignation of Morgan Kenny at the March 5, 2024 council meeting. Photo credit: Morgan Kenny.

Township will seek applications for community appointment

LAURIE WEIR

Montague Township is looking for a councillor to fill a vacant position left after the resignation of Morgan Kenny, who was acclaimed in the 2022 election. 

Kenny said she had nothing but good things to say about her fellow councillors and staff in the township. She has two children and said her time was needed at home, for now. 

“I have an infant daughter who was coming with me to council meetings, and a four-year-old son at home,” she told this publication. “I found it was a bit too much on my plate. I wanted to be home in the evenings with my kids. Those first early years are very important.”

Kenny said she had a “wonderful experience” on council, and thanked her community for putting her in the council chair. 

“Councillors have been wonderful,” she said. “I can’t say enough great things about the staff at the township. All in all, it was a wonderful experience, and when these guys are a bit older and don’t need me as much, I’ll certainly be looking to return.”

At the March 5 meeting, council “regretfully accepted the resignation” of Kenny, who said she’d be happy to remain the township’s representative on the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority.

During the regular meeting of Lanark County council on March 13, Kenny was removed from the Traffic Advisory Working Group during the striking committee report. 

Kenny said she appreciated getting a better understanding of the decisions that council is making, and “having that perspective that it’s not as easy as sending calcium trucks down the road. There is a lot more to it. When you’re a resident, you don’t have that whole understanding of some things can’t be just that simple.”

Kenny said she didn’t find the position an overwhelming one, because of the “excellent staff at the township.”

There were no “real contentious” issues as part of council, she said, and “we seemed to come to decisions easily and worked as a team.”

She said it was nice to get Montague to participate in World Thinking Day – an initiative by Girl Guides Canada.
“Montague Township now lights up the municipal building with blue lights in honour of World Thinking Day and Girl Guides,” she said. “That was nice to be part of that.”

Montague council is comprised of Reeve Karen Jennings, Deputy Reeve Jeffrey Carroll, and councillors Jim Abbass and Gerald Crabtree. 

Montague Township will fill the vacant position by seeking public applications. Council will approve this process at the March 19 meeting, after which there will be a public posting seeking a new councillor. 

“The township council and staff would like to thank Coun. Morgan Kenny for the time and dedication that she put into the township during her tenure as a municipal councillor,” a release from the township states. 

“We wish her all the best and look forward to continuing to see her and her family at the community events.”

Kenny added: “Thanks to the community and I hope they are willing to have me again in the future. I’m certainly going to continue to be involved in the recreation events and different events and bring my family.”

She said her son is “quite well known at rec events,” as the button maker. “He makes a lot of buttons.”

Portland’s Skate the Lake adapts to climate uncertainties

Start of the only 100-kilometre
Photo credit: Skate the Lake Facebook Page [facebook.com/skatethelake]

Volunteers of a popular skating event in the village of Portland, Ontario in the township of Rideau Lakes are working on reinventing the way they have organized races for 20 years. Traditionally, Skate the Lake was held on the last weekend of January, but the pandemic and climate change have organizers reconsidering that approach.

“Twenty years ago we picked the last weekend of January to organize an exciting weekend of speed skating races on Big Rideau Lake because it is traditionally the coldest weekend of the winter here, but the weather is so unreliable that it doesn’t make sense to plan so far ahead anymore,” says John Bongers, president of Portland Outdoors, the volunteer group that is behind Skate the Lake. “To deal with the reality of frequent warming spells and rain we are going to experiment with pop up style events where we will decide on races only a few days in advance when we have a clear picture of short-term weather forecast,” Bongers said.

Every year, Portland Outdoors prepares a spectacular one-kilometer oval on the shallow bay in front of the village. It hosted the North American Marathon Speed Skating Championships in 2006 and 2014.

Start of the only 100-kilometre
Photo credit: Skate the Lake Facebook page [facebook.com/skatethelake]

During the pandemic, Portland Outdoors volunteers switched focus from being a mostly Skate the Lake weekend focused group to an organization focused on opening the oval as early as safely possible and keeping it open as long as possible. The formula of offering a safe and healthy physical outdoor activity proved a very successful combination and the Skate the Lake Challenge was introduced. The Skate the Lake Challenge is open as long as the oval is open and individual skaters track their total kilometres throughout the season.

January 2023 was the first time in three years that a Skate the Lake weekend was planned due to the pandemic, but the event had to be canceled because of poor ice conditions, the same reason that the Ottawa Rideau Canal never opened for skating.

“We are taking our twentieth anniversary to try something new. Instead of picking a date months in advance we will look at the short term forecast and make a call to host races when we are sure the weather is favourable, much like pop-up events are called at the last minute,” said Bongers.

Portland Outdoors is hosting a meeting for any new volunteers who would like to get involved. The meeting will be at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #231 at 2314 Harlem Road on November 27 at 7 p.m. Volunteers with marketing, writing and social media experience as well as volunteers with experience in running and timing events are particularly needed.

Website – www.skatethelakeportland.com
Facebook – www.facebook.com/skatethelake
Twitter – www.twitter.com/bigrideauskate
Strava – www.strava.com Log in and search for the Skate the Lake club

Skate the Lake sponsors include: Andress’ Independent Grocers, C & M Superior Docks, Canadian Tire Smiths Falls, Country Roads Community Health Centre, G. Tackaberry & Sons Construction, Herlehy Home Hardware, Jamesview Builders & Electrical, Kudrinko’s, Leeds Transit, Leisure Days RV Center, Len’s Cove Marina, Levac Propane, McNichols Electrical and Plumbing Ltd, Raymond Marine, P3 Panel, RBC Royal Bank, RCL Automotive and Tire Discounter, RE/MAX, Recess Café, Rideau Realty, Rideau Valley Landscaping and Supplies, Scotland Funeral Homes, Smiths Falls Nissan, Smith Petrie Carr and Scott Insurance Brokers, SSP Cabinetry and Millwork, The Review Mirror, Tim Hortons Smiths Falls, Township of Rideau Lakes, United Edge – Structural Components, WC Gas Works and WTC Communications.For more information, contact Skate the Lake at stlportlandoutdoors@gmail.com or 613-207-1950.

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