Caledon Community Services host annual Christmas Gala

Written By JASEN OBERMEYER

There was a feeling of Christmas in the air for Caledon Community Services (CCS), as they hosted their annual Home for the Holidays Gala to raise much needed funds for the organization.

The event took place on Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Royal Ambassador Event Centre. Guests enjoyed a live auction for Christmas trees, music, dinner and dance, and helped spread some Christmas cheer.

“It is our annual signature event,” said CEO Monty Laskin. “The fundraising that we raise here supports the organization throughout the year ahead.”

CCS is a multi-service, full community-impact organization, whose mission is to help people help themselves. They provide a variety of services and programs to those in need, including senior services, counselling, employment, youth and transition programs.

“It has that home for the holidays feeling. It's got that Caledon feeling,” said Donna Craag, CCS's Director of Communications and Development. “The gala originally started in people's homes. We want to always capture that same feeling.”

Laskin explained they have to raise $1-million every year, with this gala being the biggest fundraising event for CCS. “We do transportation, youth training, seniors services, poverty reduction.” He added the gala helps expose the organization and its services to the community.

“There's more people who could use our help if only we had the funds and if only we could reach them,” noted Craag.

She mentioned the money raised is non-designated. “It can support every program or service in CCS that has a shortfall.”

Bill Parnaby, CCS's Chair of the Board, said their transportation service is in demand the most. “Because Caledon's landmass is so big, it's difficult to service. We're really all over the place with a lot of different services which take a lot of people and resources.”

He reiterated there is still a need in the community to help more people. “We're it, so we're restricted in terms of who we can pick up. It's a way bigger territory than we can cover, but we're doing our best.”