A steak and lobster dinner, auction and dance – all in support of some worthy causes, what more could you want?
It’s not hard to see why the Chestermere Knights of Columbus were able to pack the main hall at the Chestermere Rec Centre for the fifth year in a row at their annual Surf N’ Turf fundraising dinner and dance.
On Saturday April 26, twenty-five volunteers from the Catholic men’s organization served over 260 guests a delicious feast that surely satisfied even the largest appetites. The event was in support of The Canadian Wheelchair Foundation and The Chestermere Family Bike Park.
“It was so nice to see so many familiar faces and supporters including our MLA Bruce McAllister and Mayor Matthews,” said event organizer, Patrick Watson. “But I also enjoyed meeting so many new people this year who attended the event for the first time.”
Before dinner, the fun was kicked off with a live auction for a VIP table that was located beside the dance floor and came complete with 5lbs of fresh cooked lobster. The dinner was followed by many opportunities to participate in the fundraising including a silent and live auction that featured exciting trips, jewellery, an incredible BBQ package and a 1 hour helicopter ride over the city.
The live entertainment was provided by the musical duo group Room to Dance, which performed a variety of classic rock and country tunes that kept everyone on their feet into the morning hours.
“The entire event was so positive, from the music to the food, everything turned out great.” Watson said.
Ten volunteers from the St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish Youth Group helped with serving, bussing and cleaning up throughout the night. “I don’t know how we ever managed without them” said Watson. “I received many, many complements of how supportive and helpful they were.”
Once again this year, in order to ensure that everyone got home safely, Mountain View Funeral Home donated their limousine service to take guests home throughout the evening. “They provided two drivers and limousines all night to take people home whenever they were ready and I am always so thankful for their support in ensuring the safety of our guests and our community,” remarked Watson.
“For the past five years residents of Chestermere and their guests along with our sponsors have come together to support this wonderful event and the fundraising efforts of the Knights of Columbus and they always make it so much fun!” Watson added.
“Although the final numbers are not yet calculated, I would not be surprised if we have raised over $15,000 for the two charities we choose to support through this event.”
Since 2003, through a program partnership with the Canadian Wheelchair Foundation, the Knights of Columbus have sponsored the delivery of tens of thousands of wheelchairs to people in need all over the world, showing exemplary compassion, generosity, and dedication to bringing mobility to those in need.
In addition to providing wheelchairs for those in need, the Chestermere Knights of Columbus are happy to support the Chestermere Family Bike Park and to recognize the efforts of Youth Encouraging Lasting Leadership (YELL) members whom have worked tirelessly over the years to bring the dream of a local bike park alive. “We are pleased to join the efforts of all our local clubs and sponsors and of course those of YELL who’s dedication and hard work on this project is dually noted.” Watson says.
The Knights of Columbus were recently named as a 2014 World’s Most Ethical Company by the Ethisphere Institute. The organization has over 1.8 million members worldwide. Established in 1875, this group still holds strong to its founding principles of faith, fraternity, charity and patriotism.
