The Soo Mill Rotary Charity Golf Classic hit the links at Crimson Ridge Golf Course yesterday to raise funds for THRIVE Child Development Centre. The sellout tournament hosted 144 players in a day full of fun, prizes, and on-course competitions.
“I’m honoured to be here to support THRIVE Child Development Centre,” shared Joel Rowswell, Soo Mill President, while presenting the company’s $20,000 donation at the tournament. “THRIVE does vital work in our community, providing high-quality childcare and early learning programs to families with children that need support. As a company, we’re committed to supporting the communities where we operate, and we hope that our donation will help THRIVE to continue making a difference in the lives of children and families in the Algoma District and beyond.”
The tournament was supported by dozens of volunteers, including THRIVE staff and past clients. “THRIVE asked me to volunteer three years ago and I’ve been doing it ever since,” shared Matteo Ianni-Palarchio, who currently serves on THIRIVE’s Board of Directors as their Youth Representative. “Just being together with people that really value your input and your contribution, and the fact that we’re contributing to something bigger is very special to me.” In addition to helping on the course, Matteo kicked off the tournament with a short speech. “All my life I’ve been really good at public speaking. I like giving speeches and expressing myself.”
The funds raised yesterday will support purchasing material and equipment for their Assistive Communication and Writing Aids Clinic, provide funds for the Family Assistance Funds program and enhancements to specialty clinics.
“What’s very important about THRIVE is that no matter what your child is dealing with, they will find a solution. Even if they don’t have the right therapies available, they’ll give you a referral to someone else that will help,” explained Matteo, while sharing his personal story. “My birth was not normal or easy. I was not breathing, and the doctors had to resuscitate me. Luckily, everything turned out okay and my parents were able to take me home. I reached some developmental milestones late, I wasn’t able to walk until I was three, and even then, I would become tired really fast when walking. I was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and got a referral to THRIVE. I had trouble maintaining heel contact when I would walk – that was one of my main symptoms of CB; and they designed therapy and exercises for me. They also referred me to get Botox injections in my legs to help relax my muscles, and that has made a HUGE difference in my life. Without THRIVE I would probably still be walking on my toes and tripping every few steps, Now I don’t even have to think about. I’m forever grateful for the support they’ve given me over the years.”
“We have a great cause in raising money for the THRIVE Child Development Centre,” concluded Dr. Daniel Sharp, Chair of the Rotary Committee, Rotarian, and tournament participant. “We would like to thank all our sponsors and prize donors, particularly our title sponsor, Soo Mill, for contributing to the success of our tournament. We look forward to seeing everyone at next year’s event!”
A big thank you is warranted to Soo Mill.