Bring on the chilly weather

 

Koats for Kids has wrapped up another successful year of providing warm outerwear for local families. The yearly fundraiser was started over 15 years by the late Arni Stephenson who sadly lost his battle with cancer in 2004. He saw a need in the community and wanted to fill it by helping families outfit themselves and their children with winter wear that is needed for our cold climate. Since his passing, the Rotary Club of Whitecourt has taken over his event and keeps it going as both his legacy to the community and a loving reminder for his family of the amazing man he was.

 

Kathy Lee Munro chaired the event this year, her first, and is very pleased with the outcome. “This year we received 408 donations not including accessories like hats, mitts, and scarves.” The Midtown Mall center space was filled with racks and tables loaded with items available to anyone who ventured down to take advantage of the opportunity. The selection of sizes was vast and there were more than enough hats to find a match to a new-to-you jacket. “We saw 100+ people come through and gave out 220 coats,” said Kathy, adding that she is so pleased with the numerous donations from the community.

 

Knowing that over 100 local community members will be much warmer this season is surely warming the hearts of Arni’s family and all the Rotary volunteers who spent so much time volunteering for the cause.

 

Volunteers pictured are Kathy Johnson (Arni’s daughter), Julie Hemmerling, Kathy Lee Munro (event chairperson), and Holly Astill (Rotary President), four of many who offered their time collecting, sorting, hanging, and helping people look for sizes. Collection boxes were held at 10 local businesses giving residents many opportunities to place clean, gently-used coats and winter accessories inside. “I really enjoyed my first year as chair and am very proud of the way it all came together,” said Munro, adding that the help is irreplaceable, “we had a great team of volunteers!”

Chartered back in 1998, the Rotary Club of Whitecourt plays a big role in the community, raising money for big projects such as the hugely popular Rotary Park. Club members hold several fundraiser events throughout the year and regularly volunteer their time. Their slogan “Service above Self” stands true especially in the running of the Koats for Kids event each year.  Their selfless act of service to the community directly keeps Arni’s legacy alive while helping 100+ individuals be warm and well dressed.

Thank you for creating such a great fundraiser, Arni Stephenson, and thank you to the Rotary Club for keeping it going!