CORNWALL, Ontario – It was a packed house for the United Way of SDG’s seventh annual signature campaign in the community, the Wine & Gourmet Tasting.
“It has been a fabulous night,” said UW Executive Director Juliette Labossiere.
Taking place at the Nav Centre on Saturday, Nov. 23, the Wine & Gourmet Tasting is the prime fundraiser of the United Way’s winter fundraising season.
“This event is really fun because it kicks off the holidays, people are in a really good mood and they don’t mind spending a little extra money on those auction items because they know it’s going back to a good cause and it’s a good time to give,” said Labossiere.
Guests had the opportunity to try a variety of wine, cheeses, cider and beers, all of the alcoholic and non-alcoholic variety.
In addition to the delicious tastings, there were also a variety of live auction items and prizes with proceeds going to support the Untied Way and the 16 local non-profit organizations that depend on their funding. Live auction items included a trip to Quebec City, a three-course dinner for six at Sheep’s Head Bistro and a hot tub. Prizes eligible for anyone who bought a ticket to the event included a designer wallet with $1,000 in cash from Welch LLP and $5,000 earrings from Pommier Jewellers.
The most anticipated prize however might have been the wine tree from Olson Fab (tree not included). The winner received 52 bottles of wine. Guests to the event who were more in the mood for beer, there was also a beer tree with 12 cases.
“I think there’s a really good vibe around the United Way. We have 16 partner agencies now, two new ones this year…I think more than ever our agencies are really working towards not doing just good work but excellent work, and combating together for poverty reduction. I think people are catching wind we are not just a fundraising agency, we are so much more. You can feel the support. People are happy to be here and happy to give,” said Labossiere.
Labossiere thanked the continued sponsors who have shown support throughout the Seven Years of Generosity, as well as all of the contributing committee chairpeople. She was happy to see the band started playing earlier than expected as guests and sponsors were excited to get up and dance.
This story will be updated with fundraising totals as soon as they become available.
