Fundraising efforts are made stronger when organizations come together – that’s why the Friends of Fort George and the Niagara Historical Society are joining forces with Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery and Parks Canada for a special collaborative fundraiser dinner on Nov. 28.
Six speakers will educate and entertain on various topics surrounding Niagara’s unique history while guests sip wine, taste gourmet food and bid on the silent auction at Ravine’s new special event’s facility – all while supporting two local organizations during History in the Vineyard from 6 to 9 p.m.
The museum’s director of finance and marketing Amy Klassen said the fundraiser is a great opportunity to showcase the vast history of the area. She credits both Tony Chisholm and Ravine owner Paul Harber for pulling the event together.
“Tony Chisholm is sort of the impetus for it.
Also, Paul Harber is on the Historical Society board and he’s been really looking for different ways to engage in the community and help out not-for-profit organizations,” Klassen said.
Money raised through the dinner will be divvied up between the Historical Society and the Friends of Fort George.
“We’re always trying to raise money for operational costs. We’re gearing up for an expansion at the museum, so a lot of our fundraising efforts are helping to fund all of that,” she said.
Executive director of the Friends of Fort George Amanda Gamble said the event will help support student summer employment.
“For us it’s nice because it’s an opportunity to raise awareness for Friends of Fort George and what we do and raise some funds for student employment opportunities,” she said.
The Friends of Fort George employ students at both Fort George and the Brock Monument in the summer.
“It’s kind of nice to do that here – you can see the monument standing outside,” Gamble added.
Master of ceremonies for the evening will be Scott Finlay of Parks Canada, and the short talks will be held in the barrel and tasting rooms of the new facility. Tickets are $120 each and include a three-course dinner, two glasses of wine and a partial tax receipt.
