100+ Caring People, One Powerful Impact A hundred dollars on its own can help a local charity. Put it together with contributions from a room full of caring neighbours, and that impact can grow into something much bigger. That’s the idea behind 100+ People Who Care, hosted by the Elgin-St. Thomas Community Foundation on Giving Tuesday, December 1. The event invites community members to contribute $100, hear presentations from local charitable organizations and vote on which project will receive the top award. For the foundation’s Executive Director, Tracy Robinson, the benefits extend beyond the money. “This is a benefit to both the people who are coming to the event and the people who get to present at the event,” she says. Presenters have an opportunity to explain their work to an audience already interested in supporting the community. Even organizations that do not receive the most votes can make valuable connections, introduce their projects to potential supporters and build awareness. “That showcase of their work is gold as well, even if they aren’t the winner,” says Tracy. The foundation often raises more than $10,000 through the event, allowing support to reach beyond the winning organization. Last year, approximately 130 tickets were sold, with presentations highlighting work ranging from homelessness and food inse- curity to veterinary care for pets. Local non-profit organizations can submit proposals from October 1 to October 31. The application asks for basic project details, giving a committee the information needed to shortlist the five organizations which will present. Optional presentation coaching will also be available this year.
Another addition is a proxy voting process being developed for ticket holders who cannot attend. Once the shortlist is announced in mid-November, those participants will have approximately two weeks to phone in their choice. Hosting the event also introduces people to the Foundation and its broader work, including its Greatest Needs Fund and opportunities for monthly giving. Tracy emphasizes that the money raised through the event is given back to the community. “It’s a way for us to do something great in the community at a wonderful time of year,” she says. For returning participants, Tracy has a simple invitation: “Bring a friend.” For newcomers, it is an opportunity to meet generous neighbours, discover local initiatives and see how a manageable individual contribution can become a significant collective gift. Participants also receive a $100 tax receipt for their contribution. Most importantly, Tracy adds, “You walk away from that night feeling like you’ve done something good.” Tickets are available online at escf.ca, where community members can take the first step towards making this Giving Tuesday count.
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Page 20 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026
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