Winkler YIP Groups Give Back

Three community organizations received grants from the Garden Valley Collegiate Youth in Philanthropy group during this spring granting period.

A total of $1,620 was given out.

Salem Home received $620 for the purchase of a Dot Spindle Match game, Central Station received $500 for the purchase of a play structure, and the Winkler Family Resource Centre was also granted $500 to fund a new toddler program, Toddler Shenanigans. The new program kicked off last week.

"We were very excited to support the causes they were asking money for," said Teacher Amy Warms.

Warms notes the three organizations were the only applications they received this year. "Last year we had to choose very carefully because we had a lot more requests than we had money give out. So we are certainly wanting to get the word out there that these grants are available in the spring."

Through various fundraising events, the GVC group raised a total of $2,500 this year, and Warms says the money left over after will be added to next year's grants.

YIP member, Seth Friesen says the group's 2nd annual paint night was their biggest fundraiser, bringing in $1,300.

The Northlands Parkway Collegiate Youth in Philanthropy group also spread some generosity last week. The group presented grants totalling $1,356 to four community organizations.

Central Station received $328 for a car seat and booster seat, Eden Mental Health Centre was also presented with a cheque for $328 for flowers and plants. Genesis House will be able to purchase some games for children in counselling thanks to a grant of $500, and Katie Cares received $200 for lawn chairs at Katie's Cottage.

YIP member Katelyn Sabourin says they were aiming to raise $1,000 this year, however, through their various fundraisers, exceeded their goal by $300.

Beate Harder says she has enjoyed her time with YIP so far and encourages others to get involved. "It was better than I expected. It's a lot of fun to raise money and also meet people."