Lorne G. MacRae (1943-1995) was an educator, leader in Canadian School Libraries and an active participant in Calgary’s diverse arts, literary and social communities. In 1994 he brought together a small group of friends to develop a fund-raiser for those served by the Southern Alberta Clinic. It was his desire to develop a unique concept that was simple and connected intimately to the individual. Thus came to life the piggybank campaign and Small Change...Big Changes. His original goals have formed the framework that continues to guide the organization.
"The concept, from the beginning, was that all it takes is small change, and we can make a big change in people’s lives." Chairman Wade Cuthbertson told GayCalgary.com "We are now at over six hundred thousand dollars donated to the clinic."
The fundraiser is different this year. In the past it has been a 60-day drive running from September to November. To commemorate the 10th anniversary this year the theme is "10 days of Small Change for 10 years of Big Changes." The event launches on November 10th with the "Piggy Launch Party" from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at the New Art Central on the corner of 7th Avenue and Center Street. It ends with the Celebration and Auction on November 19th from 7:00pm to Midnight. The organization is honored to be one of the first events in the New Art Central, which opens November 3rd. In between those two events, people take their piggy-banks home and find a variety of ways to contribute.
"A lot of people do it individually. Some people take it home and have a dinner party with their guests, donating to the piggy-bank. Others take it to work and put it on their desk. We have heard all sorts of creative things people do with it. We have reached a point where some contributors have the piggy bank out all year from past years and collect money knowing it’s coming up."
For those wishing to get a tax receipt, they can donate by cheque as well. There are a number of ways to participate. If you can’t attend the launch party, pigs are available now at Money Pennies, Priape, Brass Monacle and The Southern Alberta Clinic. For those unable to participate using the piggy-banks, but still wanting to attend the event, admission at the door is $50. Cuthbertson says that the Auction itself will have a great deal to offer.
"It is an incredibly diverse auction list, we have a lot of art up for grabs. This year there are half a dozen pieces created just for us. There will also be sculptures, jewelry, household items, and gift certificates for restaurants, and even hot-air balloon rides!
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Contributor Jason Clevett |
Locale Calgary |
Topic Community |
