Fundraiser dance to benefit the CABMN Ken Jones Respite Program
The Missisquoi North Volunteer Centre (CABMN) Ken Jones Respite Program has been in operation for close to thirty years now. Offering weekly programming for special needs clients, specifically adults with intellectual disabilities, or victims of brain trauma (with or without physical disabilities), and offering respite for their families. The program takes place at the CABMN Youth Centre (282 Principale in Mansonville) every Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Animated by Sheila Samborsky and Theresa (Terry) Stott, the group enjoys crafts, social and leisure activities, including bowling, dancing, music, story time, baking, outdoor recreation, games and more…
The pandemic certainly had an affect on the program and the number of those attending has decreased. The program relies on a specific number of attendees to cover the costs and while an enthusiastic number of participants remain, the group is running at a loss and this makes fundraising essential.
On Saturday, May 27 the Ken Jones Respite committee is organizing a fundraiser dance with all profits after expenses going to support the program costs. The event will be held in the basement of the Mansonville Catholic Church at 324 Rue Principale starting at 8 p.m. and going to midnight. The event is for adults aged 18+ and there will be a bar on-site. Live music performed by The Random Chance Band will keep the crowd dancing with a variety of music from the 60s, 70s and a few surprise numbers thrown in.
“We also have our art auction fundraiser launching this weekend on Facebook,” said Madeleine Langlois a member of the Ken Jones committee. The page can be found by searching CABMN Artist Charity Auction Page Supporting KJC Program on Facebook. “We are hoping that the funds raised through this initiative will add to our funds as well.”
The committee knows that it takes some ingenious fundraising ideas to raise funds for any cause and one of the most important elements to the success of the fundraising is the donors and people who help to make things happen and the public who supports the initiatives.
According to committee member, June Peacock who is a caregiver for two family members with disabilities, the kindness of the community has always been a key element to the success of the Ken Jones Respite program and so many efforts in Potton and area.
“We are grateful to the people who come out in support of these things,” said Peacock. “They say it takes a village and this is true. The key to success in so many projects and programs is thanks to the generosity and involvement of others.”
If you have missed sharing time with friends, enjoying an evening of music and dancing while helping a great cause, this is the event for you! Tickets are on sale now at $15 per person and are available by calling the CABMN at 450-292-3114 or emailing Debra Harding at d.harding@cabmn.org to reserve yours today.