The people who attended the 100 Women Who Care meeting on Thurs., May 8 came from all walks of life, but had a common goal of doing what they could to make their community a better place in which to live. Tinkess Photo

WINCHESTER – If things continue along the same path they have been following for the past couple years, one of North Dundas’s most popular community development groups may have to change their name. One Hundred Women Who Care only tells about half the story.

Diane Crummy is the Chair of the 100 Women Who Care North Dundas committee and she began the meeting by confirming what Facebook had been hinting at all week.

“We’re also very thankful for those who don’t attend tonight, but they sent their donations ahead of time,” said Crummy. “For all those girls, it’s looking like we’re going to have just under $21,000 to share tonight.”

$21,000 would mean that 210 women signed up to donate $100 each, which is an incredible accomplishment in a relatively small community. What is even more incredible is that each year the interest in becoming a part of this group continues to grow.

This year, there were five groups who applied for funding: The Morewood Recreation Association, seeking funding for a Truth and Reconciliation Day event, the Boys and Girls Club, seeking funding for their new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) Squad, The Winchester and District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) Foundation, seeking funding for an IV infusion pump, Carefor Nor-Dun Support Centre, seeking funding for picnic tables, planters, and umbrellas for their new patio, and the Chesterville and District Agricultural Society, seeking funding towards their grandstand revitalization campaign.

Each of the applicants made a short presentation to the donors in attendance, who then by secret ballot chose which of the five applicants they preferred. They were instructed to only vote for one group. The votes were then counted by members of the 100 Men Who Care North Dundas, who volunteered their time to help.

Prior to having committee member Eric Duncan provide the result of the voting, Crummy took a moment to thank her committee.

“I’d just like to say what a great pleasure it’s been to work with the 100 Women Who Care North Dundas committee once again this year,” said Crummy. “They are a multi-talented group of people who give us their valuable time to make this event successful. I’ve said it before, and I’m going to say it one more time. I really have the best team to work with. I’d like each of you to stand as I mention your name, please.

“Elaine De Rooy. She’s looked after the preparation, printing and organization for your registration tonight, and has, once again, done just an amazing job.

“Martine Thurler-Guy has finished setting up tonight’s event, planning and food for everyone, and, of course, regarding sponsorship for this event, through her business.

“Susan Marriner has designed and kept our website current and has been instrumental in getting our emails out to everyone. Her wealth of knowledge as an owner of Marriner Design has helped ensure another successful event.

“Eric Duncan, our local MP, whose knowledge and public relations work and event planning is always ready with some sound advice when needed and helps by organizing the men for registration and voting tonight. It’s very much appreciated that he takes time out of his busy schedule, and hey, he actually answers my texts. These people, there are many talents, ability to laugh and work hard has made this event so much fun to put together again this year. Could I just ask for a round of applause for all of those people?”

Before revealing the winning charities, Duncan thought it only reasonable to recognize what Diane Crummy had accomplished as committee chair.  “Diane never thanks herself,” said Duncan. “This woman here does not only lead the 100 Women, and has for many years, but she keeps the men organized with 100 Men Who Care.”

Combined, the two groups have raised a total of approximately $272,000.

Without further ado, Duncan announced the four winning charities:

  • First place: Carefor Nor-Dun Support Centre, receiving the $6,230 they requested
  • Second place: WDMH Foundation, receiving the $5,000 they requested.
  • Third place: The Boys and Girls Club, receiving the $8,000 they requested
  • Fourth place: Chesterville and District Agricultural Society, receiving the funds remaining, approximately $1,770 of the $10,000 they had requested.

Next up will be the 100 Men Who Care, North Dundas, with their meeting usually scheduled to take place early in the Fall. It will be another opportunity to show how much good can be done in a short period of time when concerned individuals work together.