Thanks in large part to retired astronaut Col. Chris Hadfield, the United Way for City of Kawartha Lakes (United Way CKL) has raised $40,000 for community programs and services.
On Thursday (May 11), the United Way CKL hosted a full day of speaking engagements with Hadfield as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, culminating with Hadfield’s keynote address at the Academy Theatre in Lindsay.
Hadfield, who was welcomed with a standing ovation, gave a candid, humorous, and engaging presentation about his experiences as an astronaut.
Wrapping up a wonderful day with a q and a with @Cmdr_Hadfield @AcademyTheatre1 Thank you Chris!! pic.twitter.com/FmE1W1arHm
— United Way Kawartha (@UnitedWayCKL) May 12, 2017
Hadfield and his wife Helene began the day with a surprise visit with members of Community Living Central Highlands, who had produced a space video invitation.
Later, Hadfield spoke to 1,600 students from the Trillium Lakelands District School Board, Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board, and Heritage Christian School.
Going out on a high note, thank you @Cmdr_Hadfield & @UnitedWayCKL for an hour of inspiration @STA_CSS #pvnclearns pic.twitter.com/KG8iKJkgoU
— PVNCCDSB (@PVNCCDSB) May 11, 2017
“This has been an incredible opportunity for our youth, community and United Way,” says Penny Barton Dyke, Executive Director for United Way CKL. “Colonel Hadfield is a true Canadian hero who has been so gracious throughout the busy itinerary.
“He is an incredible, natural teacher who skillfully delivers messages that inspire students to embrace lifelong learning and he encourages all of us to know that the future for this and upcoming generations will go beyond Earth.”
Sponsors for the day included Hydro One, Celebrations, Economy Wheels, Homestead Oxygen, Happy Days House Boats, The Pyle Group, Mariposa Dairy, and Ruth Tait Creations. Kawartha Lakes Community Futures Development Corporation provided grant funding
“Our campaign Co-Chairs, Barb Truax, Sherry Giltenan and Tim Truax dreamed big this year for our 50th anniversary,” Barton Dyke says. “They enlisted a highly talented team that included Pat Twohey, Ruth Tait, Marlene Wood, Shantal Ingram and Jennifer Bell. This, coupled with sponsors, created an incredible event.”
