James Bond, the Kramdens and Helping Local Kids

It's local week, and this week's donation is being made in honour of a couple who helped to make us feel more 'local' when we moved to Guelph. When we met them in the neighbourhood, they began including us on their guest list -- and wow, do they ever throw great parties! Last weekend was a black tie 007 Casino Royale night in honour of David's 50th birthday, complete with a red carpet, bright lights, fancy hors d'oeuvres and gambling tables (with chips worth pretend money -- just my speed).

What does all of this have to do with giving? Well, I've just RSVP'd for these friends' next gathering -- on September 10, they are hosting a fundraiser for the Children's Foundation of Guelph/Wellington -- a night of live music at their home, featuring the Kramdens. I'll be topping up that admission fee for this week's donation.

As David's invitation emphasized, he has confidence that a full 90% of the money raised goes directly to programs to support kids in our community, in three main ways:

1. Christmas hampers
2. Getting kids involved in sports
3. Breakfast programs in elementary schools

I'd anticipated that one of Just Giving It's December donations would go toward a Christmas hamper, but once again I've had the pleasure of watching things come together differently than I'd expected, and this seems to be just the right time. I'm sure something else inspiring will come to my attention for December. In the meantime, I'm delighted to continue to support the Children's Foundation and I've marked the Kramdens' concert on my calendar for September 10. No tuxes or roulette this time, but lots of local fun and local giving. Thanks for continuing to welcome us to the neighbourhood, friends, and for helping to make it a more generous place!