A group of dedicated Chilliwack seniors have been quietly raising thousands of dollars for local charities.
And they’re enjoying every minute of it.
Hampton House residents on Hodgins Avenue have collectively raised a total of $5,670 since January, according to figures from staff.
For resident Margaret Tinge it’s something she looks forward to — in part because of the fellowship and socializing. She pitches in with most fundraising activities organized for the seniors.
“Why not? You make such wonderful friends doing it, and it’s always for a great cause.”
The charity activities are something meaningful that they all enjoy doing together — residents and staff alike, said Rita Dick, Hampton House community relations manager.
“Our seniors are very involved in their community and really enjoy raising funds, especially for local programs which most times get overlooked,” said Dick.
So far in 2012, they completed the Walk for Memories to support of Alzheimer’s, A river cleanup for Chilliwack Senior Peer Council, the 2nd Annual Bake Book and Bargain Sale for the Kidney Foundation, Pennies for Tots for Chilliwack Community Services’ Children’s Programs, and the Hampton House barbecue for a Cause for CCS.
Resident Marvia Hickli appreciates how the fundraising events allow her to carry on the proud tradition of volunteer service that she started as a young woman.
“Once we get here, for many of us it means having no car or way to get out. So this is wonderful, being able to walk for Alzheimer’s, or stuff the bus, or clean up at Island 22 Park.”
Resident Shirley Waugh said she enjoys every single one of the activities they organize, but has one annual fundraiser that is especially dear to her heart.
“I’m a big supporter of raising funds for the Terry Fox Run.”
Resident Sheila Noer told a story about talking one of her neighbours into painting a blue forget-me-not on her cheek to honour the Alzheimer’s Society Walk for Memories fundraiser.
Resident Lillian Sjogren clearly has a blast as these events. It’s the warmth and camaraderie they share that makes all the difference, she said.
“The most fun I had was at the Island 22 cleanup. We laughed ourselves sick,” she remembered.
They spotted a toilet seat up a tree, while cleaning garbage from the riverside, and that set them all off.
“Rita wanted me to climb the tree to get it.”
The welcoming atmosphere even brings some of the shyer residents out of their shell.
Resident Janice Gronick tends to be a little reclusive, but now likes to do her part.
“But because of Rita and Tracey, I get involved!” she said.
It’s been a busy year, and there’s no stopping these committed folks.
Coming up in November is the Honour Event for Remembrance Day, where they’ve been collecting funds for the War Amps for three years running, and then in December it’s Stuff the Bus for the local food bank.
jfeinberg@theprogress.com
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