MEDIA RELEASEApril 22, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAKING WISHES COME TRUE!
Algonquin College Event Management students raise $73,905.00 for the Children’s Wish Foundation, Ottawa Chapter
This week, the Algonquin College Event Management graduating class stood proud when they presented a cheque valued at $73,905.00 to the Children’s Wish Foundation.
For the third straight year, the Event Management program students planned and executed fundraising events as part of their “Creating Magic” partnership with the Children’s Wish Foundation. Foundation staff and board members were on hand along with three Wish children and their families to accept the cheque.
This year students planned 16 themed events which took place in venues across Ottawa in February and March. Students secured locations, created all programming and decor, obtained sponsorships and donations, and marketed their events, all while working with a budget of $100.00 per event, which had to be re-paid through fundraising.
Children’s Wish Foundation Chapter Fundraising Coordinator, Lynn Noel, has been instrumental in assisting with the development of these events. Noel works side by side with the students throughout the year to provide direction and support as needed. “The Event Management students continue to inspire all of us at Children’s Wish”, said Noel. “Our “Creating Magic” partnership with the Event Management Program at Algonquin College is a true success thanks to the talents, passion and commitment of these amazing students who take this opportunity to showcase their learning and most importantly make a real difference in the community.”
Andrew MacDowell, Board Chair for the Children’s Wish Foundation, National Capital Region added “Once again the Algonquin College faculty and students have made a positive impression in our community. Together, we have helped improve the level of awareness in our community for the Children’s Wish Foundation and ultimately helped more children experience their dream of a lifetime. The National Capital Region of the Children's Wish Foundation is extremely thankful for this relationship.”
Experiential learning is an integral part of the Algonquin College learning philosophy and the Event Management program prides itself on providing students with the chance to gain real-world experience while applying the skills and knowledge learned in the classroom. Student Caron Fitzpatrick, feels she has come out of this program with more than an education. “I've come out with a "skill set". Ms. Fitzpatrick went on to say, “In a market where all of your colleagues are high energy, organized and efficient, it's difficult to stand out among the crowd.”
Altaf Sovani, Chair of the School of Hospitality & Tourism is a strong supporter of the Event Management students and the relationship the school has with the Children’s Wish Foundation. “I am very proud of the students of the 2010 Event Management program and their accomplishments” said Mr. Sovani. He went on to say “the commitment and passion shown by the faculty and the students is exceptional as evidenced by the real fund raising efforts for a worthwhile charity. They are making a difference in children’s lives and this type of experiential learning is what differentiates our programs at Algonquin College."
The Children’s Wish Foundation partnership provides an opportunity for students to grant wishes to children with life threatening illnesses.
For more information contact:
Sylvia Densmore Lynn Noel
Professor Event Management Fundraising and Volunteer Coordinator
Algonquin College Children’s Wish Foundation
613-727-4723 ext/ 7423 613-221-9474
densmos@algonquincollege.com lynn.noel@childrenswish.ca
