Cookout with Cuddy: the Encore, presented by IG Private Wealth Management - Throssell Group, was an overwhelming success for CNIB Lake Joe, bringing in over $430,000 at this sold out event. The generosity of attendees, sponsors and donors allows us to continue providing one-of-a-kind camp experiences for people impacted by sight loss.
The event was packed with excitement and entertainment. Crowds enjoyed the chance to meet some of our future guide dogs at the CNIB Puppy Pit, generously sponsored by Mantella Corporation, and shot some goals blindfolded on our blind soccer pitch. For the more adventurous, we partnered with Helen Hunt RE/MAX Hallmark York Group Realty Ltd. to offer breathtaking aerial views of Lake Joe with hot-air balloon rides.
The excitement carried on with our online silent auction, where winners scored amazing prizes including tickets to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, the Arkells, and Usher, along with stunning artwork and one-of-a-kind sports experiences. Some lucky guests outbid the competition to claim exclusive offerings, like a golf game with the legendary Wendel Clark and a signed Jim Cuddy guitar. The grand finale was a live performance by the Jim Cuddy Trio with guests dancing the night away to close out an unforgettable evening.
Guests came dressed in their “Muskoka best” to enjoy the party of the summer, snapping photos and posing in the 360 photo booth generously sponsored by Mantella Corporation (to relive these memories visit cnib.ca/cookoutwithcuddy). They also came to ensure that people with sight loss can continue making memories at CNIB Lake Joe for years to come.
A camper this season explains why Lake Joe is so important. "I first came to Lake Joe 51 years ago. I had not met any other vision impaired people besides some family members. I learned that blindness wasn't the end of my story. I have tried activities that I never dreamed I could do. And most of all, I have made lifelong friends there.”
“This event is vital not only for raising funds but also for increasing awareness about the barriers faced by individuals with sight loss," said Monique Pilkington, Executive Director, CNIB Lake Joe. “The overwhelming support we receive makes it possible for us to create powerful connections, opportunities and confidence-building activities, shaping a brighter future for all of our campers.”
We are incredibly grateful to our presenting sponsor: IG Private Wealth Management - Throssell Group
With thanks to our generous sponsors: Mantella Corporation, Bruce Power, Jayne's Luxury Rentals, RahFish, HummingbirdHill Homes + Construction, Franco Nevada, MacDonald Steel, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Bloomex, Ticketmaster Canada, Clearlake Brewery, Skyline Electrical Supply, Score Promotions, The Printing House, Sofina Foods
Thanks to our partners: Legends Distillery, Barbet, Muskoka Springs, Jackson Events, Founders Original
A very special thank you to our committee members who made this event one to remember (in alpha order): Amar Powar, Chelsey Penrice, David Throssell, Genevieve Roch-Decter, Helen Hunt, Jack Creasy, Jayne McCaw, Liz Brown, and Sylvia Mantella.
For more information about next year’s event or other ways to support CNIB Lake Joe, please contact Steve Smyth, Senior Manager, Philanthropy & Campaign Lead (CNIB Lake Joe), steven.smyth@cnib.ca or 416-319-5493.