$13,600 raised at fundraiser for Peel Children’s Aid Society

By Zachary Roman

A recent fundraiser for youth in Peel Region was a success.

On May 29, the Peel Children's Aid Society (Peel CAS) announced its fundraiser held last month at Milestones Grill & Bar Heartland Centre raised $13,600 for Peel CAS' Trailblazers Youth Centre. 

Mary Beth Moellenkamp, CEO of Peel CAS, said the money will be used to strengthen the non-profit's services that help young people succeed.

“From employment and education sessions to life skills and financial literacy, our goal is to build

upon the achievements of our Trailblazers Youth Centre by extending these programs to

community groups in the near future… providing opportunities for fun and recreation while helping (youth) build social connections with peers, nurture positive well-being, and learn important life skills from mentors,” said Moellenkamp.

Peel CAS, in partnership with the Peel Children's Aid Foundation, will be using the money to enhance programs currently offered at the Trailblazers Youth Centre, which is located in Mississauga.

Some examples include career resource programs, networking opportunities, cultural programs, and anti-human trafficking education. 

Maryann Kerr, CEO of the Peel Children's Aid Foundation (Peel CAF), said every young person deserves the joy and camaraderie that comes from participating in programs at the Trailblazers Youth Centre. 

“We are deeply appreciative of the collective efforts of volunteers, donors, sponsors, the youth and staff at Peel CAS' Trailblazer Youth Centre and community members for their compassion and support,” said Kerr. 

Canadian Senator Victor Oh attended the recent fundraiser and was inducted into Peel CAS and Peel CAF's honour roll hall of fame for his achievements in advocating for the rights of youth and immigrants in Canada.

Kaleed Rasheed, Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery of Ontario; Shafqat Ali, MP for Brampton Centre; and Deepak Anand, MPP for Mississauga-Malton all took part in the fundraiser as keynote speakers.  

Acting Inspector Feras Ismail from the Peel Regional Police also attended the event to speak about Peel's community safety and well-being plan. 

Rounding out the speakers at the event was Dr. David Green, Executive Director of the Free for All Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing social justice and advocacy services for marginalized communities.

Key sponsors of the recent fundraiser included Toronto Raptors affiliate Raptors 905, a division of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.