Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year returns Feb. 22, but an event to help get people ready took place last week.
Organizers of the Coldest Night of the Year, which benefits the House Youth Centre locally, teamed with G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. last Friday night at the Howard Ave. microbrewery for the “So Cold Social.” As of press time, The House had reached 40 per cent of its $50,000 goal with 20 teams, 91 walkers and 34 volunteers having registered.
Amy Bailey, a member of The House’s organizing committee, said the “So Cold Social” allows teams to get together, socialize and be recognized for their involvement.
“This event is designed as a thank you to the sponsors, the walkers and the volunteers,” said Bailey. “The idea is to connect before the walk. We’re hoping for a good turnout.”
Bailey said they raised $275 at the recent TRUE Festival and wanted to use the “So Cold Social” as a way to sign even more people up for Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY). She added volunteers with the CNOY went to North Star High School and spoke with leadership students to try and get them to form teams and get involved with the walk.
The 2K and 5K walks on Feb. 22 are open to all ages, Bailey pointed out, and the youth is key as The House is geared towards supporting youth.
“We’re very happy with our progress,” said Bailey. “February is when the majority of our money comes in.”
If people are unable to attend the CNOY and still want to contribute, there is a March 31 deadline for donations. Bailey said they are in the fifth year of having a CNOY event in Amherstburg. It takes $20,000 to be part of it.
Bailey said The House Youth Centre gives youth a place to be and feel welcome.
“Help us help our community,” she told the crowd that gathered at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co.
The Feb. 22 event sees check-in behind the Amherstburg Community Hub start at 4 p.m., opening remarks at 4:45 p.m. and a send-off for the walk at 5 p.m.
The Amherstburg Firefighters Association will be serving chili after the walk and an afterparty will be held at Shooters Roadhouse, with Shooters being the title sponsor.
For more information, to donate or to register a team or as a walker, visit www.cnoy.org/amherstburg.
“So Cold Social” gets people ready for Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year
By Ron Giofu
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