This story is made possible through the support of Housser's Paint and Wallpaper as part of OrilliaMatters' Community Leaders Program
Soldiers' Memorial Hospital Foundation is set to hold its first cycling-fundraising event, dubbed Soldiers' Ride, on June 4. The event, which covers 50 to 100 kilometres, aims to raise funds for patient care at the hospital while promoting healthier and more active lifestyles.
"The ride will begin at Quayle's Brewery and make its way up North Simcoe and Muskoka, do a nice big loop around and then come back down and end at Quayle's Brewery," explained Kaitlyn St. Pierre, the senior annual giving officer for the Soldiers' Memorial Hospital Foundation.
According to St. Pierre, the event takes riders through the stunning scenery of Canada's cottage country, including lakes and waterfalls.
The minimum fundraising fee for riders is $250, and sponsorship opportunities are available.
The event's main sponsor, Quayle's Brewery, has thrown its full support behind the event and, with its stunning location and delicious products, is a destination that participants are sure to enjoy.
The hospital hopes to raise $25,000 in its first year of hosting the event, with the funds going towards building a new hospital and improving healthcare in the community.
"This event, in particular, improves healthcare in our community while also promoting and advocating for healthier active lifestyles," she said. "So, it really is a win-win when it comes to a hospital-type fundraising event."
St. Pierre explained that as a community located north of the city, they often lack access to the same resources that city hospitals have. But with the appropriate funding and community support, Soldiers' Hospital hopes to eliminate the need to travel for healthcare.
The premier ride promises to be a beautiful, challenging and rewarding experience that interested participants can sign up for on the Soldiers' Memorial Hospital Foundation website.
