When it comes to helping young people achieve their full potential, developing their leadership skills is crucial to the Rotary Club of Niagara-on-the-Lake, says Chris Hatch, its director of community service.
That’s why, this spring, the Rotary Club showed its support for the 809 Newark Royal Canadian Air Cadets with a $1,000 donation to support its youth leadership programs and upcoming fundraisers.
This marks the first time the Rotary Club has funded the local cadet unit, which will go directly to aiding its annual bottle drive and the “Keep ’em Flying” fundraiser.
Hatch presented the sponsorship cheque to 809 Newark cadet committee chair Katie Kells on April 5, who reached out to the Rotary Club about supporting the cadets.
“Leadership skills are things that were important to our Rotary values,” said Hatch, who emphasized the club’s focus on the development of young people.
He said the NOTL cadet group’s purpose aligned well with the Rotary Club’s mission to invest in local programs with lasting community impact.
The funds will support operational costs and the squadron’s “Keep ’em Flying” fundraiser on May 31 featuring Duelling Pianos Niagara at the NOTL Community Centre.
The 809 Squadron will host its seasonal bottle drive on May 24, accepting liquor, wine and beer bottles at three locations: St. Davids Cold Storage, Legion Branch 124 and Cornerstone Church.
The drive, running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., allows residents to contribute recyclables without having to leave their vehicles.
“People come by with their beer and wine bottles, we take them, and that helps us fundraise,” said Kells.
The bottle drive and “Keep ’em Flying” fundraiser will help support training, equipment and participation in cadet programs.
Hatch confirmed the Rotary Club is already organizing future community projects, including a Canada Day BBQ at Simcoe Park and its annual holiday home tour.
“We raise funds and give it out to local and international charities around the world,” said Hatch.
The 809 Squadron remains NOTL’s only air cadet unit.
Residents are encouraged to donate bottles or purchase fundraiser tickets by contacting the squadron via its website, 809cadets.ca.
