Mayor Dave Augustyn’s Column for week of 3 April 2017
It’s gratifying when people support local charities that improve our community; it’s fun when people get
dressed up for a great time. The Annual Mayor’s Gala combines both opportunities!
On Saturday, May 27, 2017, community volunteers will host the Ninth Annual Pelham Mayor’s Gala. This
“Sail the Seven Seas” themed gala will “set-sail” from Lookout Point Golf & Country Club at 6:00 PM.
In addition to activities that you might expect on a “swashbuckling” voyage, we will showcase great
music, exquisite food, an amazing live auction, and time to mingle and catch-up with other generous
“passengers.” No doubt, the event will be a great voyage!
Yet, these festivities have a purpose.
Since 2009 and thanks to the generosity of sponsors, donors, and attendees, the Mayor’s Gala has raised
more than $230,000! Proceeds have supported more than 30 not-for-profit community organizations
and service clubs that play a vital role in shaping and improving the Town of Pelham. With these funds,
the Gala has helped youth and seniors, helped provide special education, supported children and
women’s centres, and funded arts, cultural, and sporting initiatives.
The Gala also founded the Pelham Community Fund through the Niagara Community Foundation.
Donations toward the fund’s principle may be given from not only the Mayor’s Gala, but also from
anyone in the community. As you update your estate plan, for instance, you may want to donate to the
Pelham fund – and your gift will assist the community in perpetuity!
The Mayor's Gala Committee is seeking applications from local organizations serving residents of the
Town for the proceeds from this year’s Gala. To be eligible, an organization should: provide
service/support benefitting residents of Pelham; be registered as a charity with Canada Revenue Agency,
a Pelham Service Club or a Pelham based not-for-profit organization; complete and submit a formal
application by noon on April 12; and not have received a donation from the Mayor's Gala fundraising
campaign in the previous year.
The community generously supports the Pelham Mayor’s Gala. In fact, we are grateful for the many
businesses and individuals that continue to support it year-after-year. If you are interested in
sponsorship, please check out the website links below.
Finally, a few “boarding passes” are still available and “cabins” are booking quickly. Please call
905-892-2607 ext. 337 to purchase your tickets or see the website for more information.
The Application for Donation Form, sponsorship opportunities, and tickets may be found at
www.pelhammayorsgala.ca or via www.pelham.ca (search: Mayor’s Gala).
Our voyage departs on May 27. Anchors aweigh!
You may contact Mayor Dave at mayordave@pelham.ca or read past columns at
www.pelhammayordave.blogspot.com.
