20th annual Festival of the Greens raises over $190,000 for health care in Cape Breton
The Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation hosted the 20th annual Festival of the Greens, presented by Cape Breton Beverages, this past Saturday at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre.
The holiday gala celebrated its milestone anniversary with a ‘roaring 20’s’ theme. Nearly 500 guests attended the gala, which began with a Speakeasy reception, followed by the formal event program including entertainment of the era.
The fundraising portion of the evening included an online silent auction, followed by a live, in-person auction led by auctioneer Larry MacLean.
The event also recognized the late Roma Kehoe, one of the founders of Festival of the Greens, by offering “A Toast to Roma,” as the signature cocktail. All proceeds from the cocktail supported the night’s fundraising efforts, thanks to Membertou Trade and Convention Centre.
The total raised was unveiled at the end of the evening, announcing an incredible $191,380.00 for health care in Cape Breton.
Contributing to the fundraising total was a gift of $20,000 from Cape Breton Beverages, which is in addition to their presenting sponsorship.
“Festival of the Greens is celebrating 20 remarkable years, and on a personal note, this year also marks 20 years since the passing of my father, Greg Lynch,” says Shannon Lynch-Colbourne, President, Cape Breton Beverages Ltd./Trans-Atlantic Preforms Ltd.
“In honour of these milestones, I am delighted to share that we are contributing an additional $20,000 to the Foundation,” Lynch-Colbourne continues. “This gift is a testament to the legacy of my father and to the importance of supporting the health and well-being of our community.”
Katherine and Steve van Nostrand, on behalf of Keltic Kubota, also announced an additional $10,000 gift, as a result of their recent “Dealer Community Hero” award from Kubota Canada.
This award recognizes Keltic Kubota’s commitment to their community and allowed the organization to donate $10,000 to a charity of their choice.
“We continue to be astounded by the support, generosity and compassion our local community shows for health care, right here at home,” says Paula MacNeil, CEO, Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation. “It was truly a remarkable event, fitting of the 20th anniversary. On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation, I extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and supported Festival of the Greens in any way.”