Hosting my 1st Solo Fundraiser: What a Success!

I don't even know where to begin...

After months of preparation, weekly visits home to get donated auction/door prize items and promote my event, the day had finally arrived, and I still had SO much to do! I had to get last minute auction prizes, organize the auction prizes and my presentation, get ready, find out when my friend, Jen, was coming to help out, greet early guests, try to figure out the projector for my presentation and serve customers at the bar. It was a very stressful beginning. I signed with relief when I saw Jen come in the doors. Right away I put her to work (don't worry she was getting a free meal/entertainment/ "life lesson from the regulars" out of it). She did a great job helping set up the auction and sell the products; thanks Jen. She also amused my regular customers. My mom was also a TREMENDOUS help. She blew my expectations out of the park! She did everything from arguing to get a float with a local Superstore manager, to helping manage the auction, from bussing table to helping me in the bar. Us Sesek ladies definitely have hard work ethics! I so proud of you mom!! (Jen and Mom: you two ladies were definitely super stars!)

For me, the night went so quickly. I was all over the place. I was working the bar, serving and bussing the band and their table, presenting, mingling with my formal customers/friends, etc. I definitely kept busy.

Those in my BB class know that I like to be ultra prepared for my presentations. Thus, when I was left "winging it", I was a bit nervous. It went over alright but do to nerves I said "um" quite a bit and left out some interesting facts. What can I say, I'm not the greatest impromptu speaker, however, I think I did alright considering I didn't have a script at all.

After my presentation I go some exciting news! My former customer and friend, John D., who works with the Mayor of Georgetown, presented an award on behalf of the Mayor wishing me all the best on my journey to BiH. Afterwards he added that they have something waiting for me when I return. "Something waiting for me when I return"?? My curiosity is running wild with that comment. What could it be? I guess I'll have to practice being patient.

The rest of the night was a blast. The dinner was done, my grandma and her boyfriend were dancing up a storm while the band was playing. I even danced with some on my old customers and got to converse with my favourite customers and co-worker while cleaning up.

The silent auction went well. I sold almost all of the items. I am SO grateful for the outpour of support I have received from local businesses, and friends. The items were amazing! I made an outstanding amount during my fundraising event, and in the end it was great to see family and friends. All in all it was a huge success. Moreover, I am THRILLED to announce that the fundraiser, along with my uncle's generous contribution, has helped me complete the fundraising portion of my program. All $2000 has been raised!!! :D

Thank you to all who helped make the event successful, and thank you to everyone who came out to support me.

~G.

Ppp For Fundraiser

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Cloud Nine! I'm in the paper!!!!

After A LOT of work, I got my story into the local paper!! I'm ecstatic!!! I hope that this will create some buzz and more people will buy tickets to my event!

*Crossing Fingers*

Here's the article: http://www.independentfreepress.com/news/article/66657

First Mail!!!

A few times a week I check my mail box. It reminds me of my first two years in residence. The anticipation of whether I would FINALLY recieve a personal letter, or at least something other than my monthly Rogers bill. Well Friday we my LUCKY day! A smile stretched from one side of my face to the other. Excitement filled me. A letter! From a donor! Who could it be?!
It reminded me of my placement three years ago when I was working up North for coop. One day I found out that a huge package had come in the mail for me. It turns out that my mom finally sent me a care package with socks, warm, new clothes, TONS of chocolate bar that my roommate at the time got my obsessed with, and a letter. It was the most amazing gift I had received in a long time!
Anyways, Friday I received a letter from a dear friend and former priest of mine, Father Kuzma. He sent a very generous, or "small contribution" as he said, of $200.00 to go towards BiH. I was overcome with shock and happiness. It was very generous. Even better, I received a personal letter wishing me luck and expressing his happiness to converse with me after so many years.
It truely made my day and reminded me that the smallest things can make such a difference in someone's life. It also reminded me that I NEED to send my letter and gift to my family friend. She's almost 100 yrs old and LOVES receiving letters. I MUST find out how many stamps are needed in order to send that package and I need to send it tomorrow while I'm in town promoting my event.

A special thanks goes out to Father Kuzma and his parish. Thank you for your contribution and thank you for reminding me about the importance of doing little things like writing hand written letters. :D

God bless,

~Georgie

Findraiser for Future BB Students

Last Friday I was informed of Joanne's plan to help fundraise for BB students 2009-2010. This year’s students will bring back an object unique to their host country that can be auctioned off at a dinner/ceremony next fall. This ceremony will also give alumni a chance to speak on behalf of BB and describe their BB experiences. It will also signify the change over from this year to next years BB class.

I think this is a FABULOUS idea. It will be a great kick-start for next years BB students' experiences and fundraising. It will also allow the current BB students to reunite and meet the future BB class.

Good job Joanne! I hope it works out. I would love the opportunity to share my stories

Group Fundraiser and donation update!

Our group fundraising event (PANKCAKE SUNDAY) raised $700, which will be dispersed amoung 8 of us. The event was a great learning experience for all of us. When there was a huge rush of people, supplies were dwindling, and the cafeteria was unwilling to give us additional meat, we had to think on the fly and make some decisions. We rose to the occasion and solved the challenging situation fairly quickly. ( I especially liked Kate/Amy's idea to have pancake toppings instead of more fruit! Genius idea!) Moreover, a helpful customer (who has had her fair share of fundraising experience) gave us some advice. She informed us that a brand of pancake mix at Costco gives a 50% rebate to people who are fundraising. She also said that speaking with the managers can sometimes be beneficial. Well it was! The manager at a local Sobey's donated 5 pancake batter! It helped keep our costs down and increase our profits! :D

A huge thanks goes to everyone who helped make the event possible and everyone who come out to the event/supported us.

Moreover, I have been informed that my uncle will be donating $200.00 towards my BB experience. :D

My Own Fundraising Event : MARCH 28!!!

With ever day that goes by, I am getting increasingly excited for my second fundraising event. With the help of my old boss, I will be hosting a fundraising event at the restaurant that I call "my second home". It will be in conjunction with his business' fourth anniversary.

The following is information on this event #2:

What: Charity Fundraiser & Anniversary Party (Including LIVE BAND: COPPERFIELDS who will be playing today’s hits & classic oldies)

When: Saturday March 28, 2009 Where: Zio’s Italian Restaurant (10 Mountainview Rd. S., Georgetown)

Cost: Dinner, Entertainment & Donation: $55 Bar Service Only: $20

Why: It will help support my journey to Bosnia Herzegovina where I will have the opportunity to promote peace and conflict resolution, while educating youth from multi-cultural backgrounds. My overseas experience will be very beneficial to my self-growth, and help me become a better educator who can adapt more readily to diverse environments. It will also help motivate me to become a more active citizen within our communities.



The following has been accomplished:

• One of the regulars at the bar, Ron, has be generous enough to create the posters and tickets
• Peter H. has made a generously donated of $42.00
• The current bartender has booked a band for the event: Copperfields
• I promoted the event within Zio's, and most of my regular bar customers have expressed their support in coming to the event
• Ruby, a friend I've gained from BB, has generously donated a digital photo frame for the silent auction
• I've gotten permission to submit an article for Georgetown's local paper promoting my event (The Georgetown Independent & Free Press Newspaper)
• After an afternoon in the heart of Georgetown I have received A LOT of support from the local community. The following items I currently have for the silent auction/door prizes: CIBC gift bag, beauty products from "The Spa on Main" and "Trendz Hair Studio", books from "The Freckled Lion ", a painting from the owner of "The Wood Heron Studio Gallery", $20.00 off from "North Star Dry Cleaners", and permission to put up promotional event posters in "Creature Comfort" and "RBM". My family friend, Aiden, is also going to donate some Pepsi products for the event.
• Our local butcher is giving us a certificate to auction & "Curves" has put together something for the auction (I need to pick up both on Sun/Monday when I'm in town)
• Another regular bar customer, Bob W., has gotten a LCD for me to used for my PPP at the event

My main focus: PROMOTE PROMOTE PROMOTE! I want to have a successful turnout!

Thank you to everyone who has helped me thus far. Any monetary and or moral support during these last few months will be greatly appreciated; I have another $1158.00 more to raise. :D Moreover, if anyone is able to donate gifts that can be auctioned off, I will forever be grateful. If you are unable to attend the events, please help me by spreading the word to family and friends.

Thank you ,

~Georgie

Fundraising Update & Information on BB 2008-9 Group Event

During reading week, I visited an old priest and friend in KW. Father Kuzma was very helpful in giving me suggestions on how to personalize my sponsorship letter, and suggested new outlets I can go to for help. It was nice to catch up with him, and I am very grateful for the chance to bounce ideas off of him. In the coming weeks, Father Kuzma's parish and my friend Wei-Ling will be contributing to my journey. Moreover, as mentioned, I have two fundraisers coming up.

Post reading week, I have been extremely busy with assignments, a midterm, extracurricular and weekend events. With that said, I have taken many hours out of my personal time in order to help organize upcoming fundraising events and seek out support from the community. For the first event I have seeked advertising opportunities from out local church, helped brainstorm other advertising techniques, and helped get necessary equipment for the band performing at the breakfast.


The 1st Event (Group Event):

What: Beyond Borders Group Fundraising Event & only pancakes available in SJ this Sunday! (Includes slideshow on BB, breakfast, and the opportunity to converse with the Beyond Borders Class of 08/09 & SJU community

When: Sunday, March 8th from 10:30am-1:30pm

Where: Main SJU cafeteria How Much: Coffee/juice, 2 pancakes, 3 pieces of bacon = $5.00 minimum donation

Why: Allows you, your friends and the rest of the SJU Community to support and encouragement us as we prepare for our various placements. It is also a great way to learn more about the program and individual placements, and eat delicious pancakes.

Fundraising Update

With $1500 left to fundraise I'm getting ready to send out my second batch of letters. It feels so good going home and talking with people who support me wholeheartedly. I am so grateful to my grandparents for helping me out even though they are terrified about me going. I am also going to my old job, and home away from home, tomorrow to discuss a potential fundraising event in the restaurant. I'm hoping that my fellow BB classmates are doing well in their fundraising events and I'm happy for those who have completed their fundraising. Moreover, I'm excited about our group fundraiser on the second Sunday in March and I'm very grateful to those who have helped me brainstorm.

Thank You Father David Wynen & Holy Cross Catholic Parish

I have just received notification that Father David Wynen & Holy Cross Catholic Parish will be donating $500.00 towards my Beyond Borders experience. I would like to formally thank them. I must say that I am ecstatic about this news and you all are the first to know about it! :D Thank you again; you have truly made my day!!! :D

~ G.

Fundraising Update

As of right now I only have a tentative $15.00 put towards my fundraising. I have sent out letters to priests who once were/ are officiated with my church in Georgetown. As well, I have sent letters to close family members, doctors, and my old boss. I am planning on following up and catch up with them within the next few days. That's it for now. **Crossing fingers**