Hand Up for Haiti draws community members together
Kristian Partington

The Hand Up for Haiti five-kilometre walk/run fundraiser organized by Schlegel Villages as the central component of a community fair managed to far outstrip expectations by raising around $40,000 for Fonkoze, an organization helping lift Haitian families out of poverty.

But the Sept. 9 event was much more than a fundraiser; it was an opportunity to draw out the best of what it means to be partners in a local and a global community, and those partnerships are the reason why the day was so successful.

The Massage Works team was on hand for the successful Hand up for Haiti fundraiser Sept. 9 in Kitchener; an example of successful partnerships at work.

For Paul Dyck, owner of Massage Works and neighbour to the Schlegel Villages support office team, his company’s involvement was a natural fit.

He had team members on hand offering massages to participants; a service that was in high demand throughout the day. Paul says it was but a small contribution, but one he was proud to be able to offer.

“The Schlegels, as a company, and as people, seem to give so much and provide so much in this area, so it’s nice to be a part of it,” Paul says.

“I really respect them for how they conduct business.”

But beyond that he says his contribution is also a good way to connect with his own clients in the community as part of an effort to help a worthy cause, all while promoting his philosophy of health and wellness.

Williamsburg Pharmacy co-owner Scott Hanney, like Paul, is eager to build on the strength of his company’s partnership with Schlegel Villages by joining whenever possible in community-building events like this.

The barbecue enjoyed by everyone at the Hand Up for Haiti event was offered courtesy of the Williamsburg Pharmacy team.

“I see the Schlegels as a very community-focused family and we really try to align our values with them,” Scott says.

This second annual fundraiser was about supporting families and communities, he adds, so it was easy to throw support behind it.

The overwhelming success makes it even more special for both entrepreneurs.

“It’s pretty spectacular, especially considering how young this event is and how well it’s doing,” Paul says, of the $40,000 result.

“It’s a testament to how much people care and how much you can really bring to bear on an issue if you take the time to organize it well.”

If you have questions, comments or a story to share, please contact 800-294-0051, ext. 24, or e-mail kristian(at)axiomnews.ca.