From June 1 to July 31, A&W in Bracebridge will be selling Cookies for Cody for $3 each, with 100% of the proceeds going to Cody’s family. Cody was a valued and cherished member of the Bracebridge A&W family starting in 2018.

In post on social media, A&W described Cody as a fan favourite among co-workers and customers alike, bringing joy, humour, incredible work ethic and his contagious goofy grin to each shift. 

“Cody had big dreams, with big goals in mind. No challenge was too small or too big, and nothing was going to stand in his way,” the post read. “Cody was a bright light in our family when he was with us, and we will all miss him dearly.”

To support the Nelson family through Cookies for Cody, visit the Bracebridge A&W location at 14 Depot Drive from June 1 to July 31.

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Cody was known for always having a smile on his face, his positive attitude and the kindness he showed to everyone around him. He was a valued member of the Gravenhurst Sobeys team for more than two years, where he made a lasting impression on both staff and shoppers alike.

Most importantly, Cody was a proud father. His 2.5 year old son was his entire world, and that is what pushed him to work harder. 

In response to this tragedy, Sobeys Gravenhurst is collecting monetary donations at all checkouts throughout this week until Sunday May 31 (no obligation). 

“Our community is heartbroken after Cody’s life was tragically taken by an impaired driver in Bracebridge. No family should have to endure a loss like this. To help support the little boy Cody loved so deeply, donations can be made at any till. 100% of the funds collected will go directly toward supporting Cody’s son and family.”

Store owner Jesse Grimes had the following to say about Cody:

“Everything about him was very positive. He loved his little son and we always spoke about him being his everything. He always had a smile and one of the greatest laughs. You could hear his laugh from the other side of the store.”

Any contribution, no matter the amount, is sincerely appreciated. 

“Thank you for helping us honour Cody’s memory and support the family he loved most.”

If you are unable to make it to Sobeys in Gravenhurst this week but would still like to make a donation, a GoFundMe has been set up. All proceeds will go towards funeral costs, as well as the upbringing and future needs of Cody’s son.

You can donate to the GoFundMe here: https://gofund.me/dfed632fe 

The post Community Coming Together To Support Family Of Man Killed By Impaired Driver appeared first on Muskoka411.

The benefits that camps provide to kids in need are immense. They offer community connections, cultural engagement, and personal growth opportunities, and set them on a path to success in adulthood.

Registrations have already started and beyond the generosity of local camps they partner with, this program is not funded, and they need more funds so they can help more children create lasting memories and learn valuable life skills. Last year, 112 local kids received camp experiences and this year, we anticipate that number to grow!

Their goal is to fundraise at least $40K to cover registration fees for hundreds of children. Registration fees start at about $55 per child for one day at a local day camp and around $275 for a week. Specialized camps cost around $600 per week and overnight camps are around $1,100. Finally, a camp-in-a-box for one child costs about $100. You can donate to their program and help making a difference in a child’s life here: https://familyconnexions.ca/camp-program/?give=7XEWNRD8

“My child had a great time and enjoyed learning to dance. This was a great experience for her to have this opportunity to be in the community and playing with other children while learning new skills. She would not have been able to attend without this camp week being offered to her.” – Summer camp 2025 recipient

A list of the camps which are offering clients of their agency free spots and discounts can be viewed on their website. Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions is deeply thankful to all the camp facilities making a difference in the lives of so many children.

For more information about Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions and how you can support their mission, please visit http://www.familyconnexions.ca/ or contact camp@familyconnexions.ca.

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Guests were treated to a captivating performance by Canadian singer/songwriter and Juno Award nominee Peter Patz, whose artistry set the tone for an evening dedicated to hope and impact. The intimate concert experience, paired with the generosity of attendees and supporters, made the night a resounding success.

“It was inspiring to see so many caring and compassionate people gathered together to make an impact on mental illness, addictions and dementia care in our communities,” said Co-Chair Laurene Hilderley. “The food was delicious, the volunteers were charming hosts, and Peter Katz’s music and storytelling created a fun and hopeful evening of community.”

Proceeds from An Evening to Shine the Light will directly support Waypoint’s essential mental health and addiction programs and services, while also helping to advance care, research, and innovation through the Dementia Fund — addressing the growing needs of individuals and families affected by dementia.

The organizing committee extends heartfelt thanks to all attendees, donors, sponsors and volunteers, whose support made the evening possible. Together, the community demonstrated the power of coming together to make a meaningful difference.

For more information about Waypoint and how to support its programs and the Dementia Fund, please visit waypointcentre.ca.

The post An Evening To Shine The Light Raises $196,000 For Waypoint And New Dementia Fund appeared first on Muskoka411.

From now until December 10th, community members are invited to drop off donations at Andy’s House. The donations will be collected and displayed under the Hospice Muskoka’s Tree of Lights, symbolizing hope, generosity, and the spirit of giving during the holiday season.

The event will culminate on Tuesday, December 10th at 11 a.m., when the OPP cruiser will be “crammed” with donations in a festive celebration alongside the community, volunteers, staff, board members, Shamrock Lodge, and the local OPP detachment.

“Community support is at the heart of everything we do,” said Jody Somerville, Development & Communications Manager at Hospice Muskoka Andy’s House. “We are thrilled to bring people together to make a meaningful difference this holiday season. Every donation helps families in West Muskoka have a brighter, warmer holiday.”

Hospice Muskoka Andy’s House encourages residents, organizations, and businesses to participate, either by donating, spreading the word, or joining the celebration on December 10th. Together, we can make a lasting impact and share the joy of giving in the community.

The post Hospice Muskoka–Andy’s House Hosts First Annual Cram-A-Cruiser Event To Support West Muskoka Food Bank appeared first on Muskoka411.

For years, Rick has completed 1,000 push ups every single day. Now, through Strength for Shelter: Rick’s 1,000 Push Up Challenge, he is aiming to set a record by completing 1,000 pec push ups faster than anyone his age. Rick is calling on the community to support this remarkable effort by donating to his Coldest Night of the Year fundraising team and helping him reach his goal. His donation page can be found at: https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/TeamFundraisingPage.aspx?teamID=1037076

“Every donation, no matter the size, helps ensure that people in our community have a warm place to stay, a hot meal, and the support they need to rebuild their lives,” says Meagan Bianco, Development Director at The Lighthouse. “Rick is using his daily discipline to shine a light on the needs in our community, and we hope the community will stand behind him.”

Rick is encouraging residents, fitness enthusiasts, and supporters of The Lighthouse to donate in honour of his birthday challenge and help make a meaningful difference for people experiencing homelessness.

Event Overview

Strength for Shelter is a collaborative community fundraiser built around Rick’s milestone birthday and his exceptional commitment to fitness and service. To mark the occasion, Rick will attempt a record setting 1,000 push ups at CrossFit Orillia while raising critical funds for The Lighthouse’s emergency shelter, community meals, and outreach programs. The event will highlight strength, perseverance, and the power of community support.

Event Details Date: Wednesday, December 10, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM Location: CrossFit Orillia

Morning Schedule 9:00 AM Arrival 9:15 AM Pec Push Up Demonstration 9:30 AM Rick Takes on 1,000 Push Ups 10:00 AM Birthday Celebration

CrossFit Orillia will host this open house style event, welcoming members and community guests to cheer Rick on, celebrate his birthday, and learn more about The Lighthouse’s mission. Coaches will demonstrate Rick’s signature pec push up technique, giving attendees an inside look at the skill behind his impressive daily routine.

Purpose Funds raised through Strength for Shelter will directly support The Lighthouse’s essential programs, including:

• Medical and mental health support
• Emergency shelter
• Community meals
• Outreach services that help individuals move from crisis to stability

How to Get Involved Attend the event and cheer for Rick Promote the event Donate to Rick’s Coldest Night of the Year team, Strength for Shelter, at the link above Celebrate Rick’s birthday and the impact of collective community strength

The post Strength For Shelter: Rick’s 1,000 Push Up Challenge To Support The Lighthouse Orillia December 10 At CrossFit Orillia appeared first on Muskoka411.

After learning about Green Haven’s urgent need for a generator to safeguard residents and staff during power outages, the Foundation stepped forward to make an extraordinary contribution that will have a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of women and children fleeing violence.

Green Haven’s shelter, spanning 14,500 square feet, requires a generator of substantial capacity to power essential services during outages. This donation brings the organization significantly closer to its goal of raising the full cost of purchase, installation, and maintenance of the system.

“This incredible gift came as a complete surprise,” said Krista Storey, Executive Director of Green Haven Shelter for Women. “We are overwhelmed with gratitude. The Frank H. Hori Foundation’s generosity lights the way—literally—for women and children who deserve safety, dignity, and stability, no matter the circumstances.”

The timing of this gift adds even more excitement leading up to Green Haven’s annual Walk This Way fundraising event on October 16, 2025, at 6:15 PM at the Orillia Public Library. The walk brings the community together to raise awareness and funds for programs supporting survivors of gender-based violence, including the generator campaign.

“This donation reminds us why we walk, to power hope, safety, and change,” added Storey. “We invite the entire community to join us at Walk This Way and be part of this powerful movement.”

Don’t forget to register today at walkthiswayorillia.ca to walk alongside survivors, advocates, and community members in solidarity and celebration.

The post Green Haven Shelter For Women Receives $20,000 Surprise Donation From The Frank H. Hori Charitable Foundation appeared first on Muskoka411.

To increase awareness and raise funds for their anti-human trafficking initiatives, Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions (SMFC) is launching their Steps for Safety event and set a goal to raise a minimum of $40,000. An expected 25 teams and 200 participants, including staff and friends of SMFC, are expected to attend. They’re looking for participants to create a team, fundraise and participate in the event. They are also looking for local businesses or groups interested in becoming a lead, supporting, rest stop, and route sponsors for the event.

The Steps for Safety is a family-friendly walk taking place on Saturday, September 20^th, at Fort Willow located at 2714 Grenfel Rd, Utopia close to Barrie and Springwater. Those interested in participating or donating can visit their page here. Participants can choose to walk 2.5 or 5kms and will receive an event shirt. There will be supported rest stops along the way and refreshments at the finish line, along with outdoor games, music, a bonfire and giveaways. To make it a friendly competition, the individual who raises the most will also receive a prize!

Funds raised through the event will directly support SMFC’s local anti-human trafficking initiatives. Every day, they receive calls about local children, youth, and families being trafficked or at risk of being trafficked. Human trafficking targets primarily young adolescents, as young as 13 years old. These are traumatic offenses affecting the family down the street, your child’s classmate, and the teenager who attends high school around the corner. Through their anti-human trafficking initiatives, their goal is to ensure safety, stability, and a hopeful future for our friends and neighbors most at risk in our community.

Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions is the Children’s Aid Society for Simcoe Muskoka and Muskoka and provides child, youth, and family services as well as Child & Youth mental health services in Muskoka. As a registered charity, they are encouraging locals to gear up, register, and fundraise for their first ever Steps for Safety Walk.

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