Putting the word fun into fundraising; The 16th Annual TCCF Boat Cruise

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“How you look so brown,” my partner Dave Rankin asked me when I arrived home on Sunday, July 7^th. “”Well, this is what happens when you are out on a boat all day in the sun,” I responded.

I had just returned from The Caribbean Children’s Foundation 16^th Annual Boat Cruise, and besides being a little tired and dehydrated, I was also moved by the efforts that this organization continuously puts into helping those who are less fortunate. Charities exist to make this world a better place; TCCF is no different as their long-term aspiration is to help as many children in need as possible. They have a big mission and have helped many families here and in much needed parts of the Caribbean.

TCCF is a 100% charity; everyone involved is a volunteer, and no one is paid. This means that in order to carry out the great work they do, they turn to their community. Getting out there day after day to raise money for the organization is vital but very challenging work; it is why charities face the temptation to cut corners when it comes to fundraising and eventually stop pushing and just settle. This cannot be said for the TCCF team who refuse to think small, continue to innovate with their fundraising strategies, and regularly cultivate instead of just asking for money from the community.

One of their strategies; a boat cruise that is held every year which gives friends and family the opportunity to experience Toronto’s vibrant harbour front and spectacular view of its skyline. This year, guests at the TCCF 16^th Annual Boat Cruise were treated to delicious food, fabulous entertainment (DJ Big P, Royal Sound DJ Service) and an overall beautiful day.

While enjoying a first class meal prepared by members of the community, guests were able to take in the breath-taking view that is rarely experienced. Let’s be real, most of the time we are going from work to home, home to work and we don’t really get to experience all that Toronto has to offer. Guests were able to purchase a glass of wine, beer or a cocktail from the specifically selected drinks list and young and old danced to new and old soca music, traditional chutney vibes, and classic reggae tunes.

Closer to the end of our Toronto voyage, they did a raffle draw and our own Trish Browning won a spring jacket; some of the other prizes included a television set and a leather duffle bag.  When we finally docked, the smiling faces of the guests told the tale of the day. Fundraising does not have to be boring or stuffy; TCCF found a way to turn it into a summer event that many will remember, which is why they have been able to successfully pull this off for 16 years. Since 2000, TCCF has paid over $1.3 million to assist children in the Caribbean. This would not be possible if it was not for the work ethic of strong community partners, family members and friends. Until next year community partners; hope to see you all there.