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A goal of $50,000 was set for Gravenhurst Against Poverty’s Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser, but they’re close to doubling that mark.
Co-Chair of the Coldest Night of Year Committee Beth Houston tells the MyMuskokaNow.com newsroom they’re currently sitting at just over $90,000 “with more coming in.” She estimates they had 160 walkers show up at different times during the day so COVID-19 protocols were followed. “It was so fantastic,” she says.
“The outpouring from the community has been amazing with all the support we’ve received,” Houston adds. Despite the on-going pandemic, she says everyone that showed up was enthusiastic. “I think people were excited about being able to do something to help other people and being able to do something out of their normal Groundhog Day routine,” she explains.
Gord Durnan has been named by Gravenhurst council as the town’s 2020 Senior of the Year.
“Gord has served our community and the entire District of Muskoka in countless ways,” Mayor Paul Kelly said. “His dedication to volunteerism is without precedent in Gravenhurst. He has contributed many hours over many years to the South Muskoka Hospital Foundation, Muskoka Community Foundation, Gravenhurst Rotary Club, Gravenhurst Against Poverty, Community Spirit Awards, and many other organizations. He certainly is a deserving recipient of this award.”
Durnan – and others that were up for the award – were nominated by people in the community.
Town officials noted he helped launch the Muskoka Community Foundation in 2007. The foundation celebrates the work of volunteers and charitable organizations throughout Muskoka. It also highlights young leaders in the community.