Executive Director Report – Winter 2025

If you’re a lover of all things winter, it looks like this is shaping up to be a good one! Sledding, skiing, skating, snowshoeing, and yes, snow-blowing, are all going full blast. Hope you’re able to be out and enjoying the season!

Here are some things we’d like to share with you as we reflect on 2024 and look ahead to 2025:

2024 in Review – the CFM served over 400 children last year with over $225,000 in grants. This allowed for 213 children to play on sports teams or participate in recreation activities, 19 children to participate in the arts, 112 children attended a local camp, 28 children received support for basic needs like winter clothing, boots or a bed, 18 children accessed mental health supports, and 12 young adults were able to attend a post-secondary institution or training facility.

Campership Program – with the kind support of the Rizzuto family and the Toni-Lynn’s Campers Fund, the CFM is already accepting and granting applications for summer camp and programs. We’re hoping to expand the number of children we serve this year due to ever-increasing demand. With your help, we want to make sure that no child will be excluded from this very important opportunity due to financial barriers.

Upcoming Events – plans are well underway for our 21st Annual Gala at the Windermere House on Saturday November 15th, 2025. Tickets will go on sale later in the winter. We are also looking forward to Camp Day at Camp Muskoka in early May, the Santa’s Village
Colour Run and the Cottage Classic in support in of the Mike Brown Fund, in June and one more special event in the summer – stay tuned!

CFM Board of Directors – we are always looking for folks who share our passion and drive to support the kids in Muskoka who need us most. If you’re interested in what we do and have a little extra time, please give us a call or email. In particular, we need a Board Secretary who would also sit on the Board Executive – if you have experience on local boards, or are just interested in charitable organizations, and have skills in note-taking and basic word-processing skills, drop us a line at info@childrenofmuskoka.com.

Finally, as we look ahead to 2025, we are so grateful to the individuals, local businesses, and charitable Foundations who continue to support our work amidst significant need across the community. As was so beautifully stated by Ashley, a recipient of post-secondary education funding,

“Your support means more than just financial assistance; it is a powerful reminder that I am not alone in pursuing these dreams. It truly takes a village, and I am honoured to have you as part of mine.”

We are so grateful that you are part of ours as we continue to work hard to create an equitable Muskoka where all kids have access to the opportunities and supports they need to be healthy, happy, and feel a sense of belonging.

All the best,

Dave