News releases

For immediate release October 9, 2007

Mayor’s Gala Raises $175,000 for Charity

This morning Mayor Don Atchison and Event Chair Bart Hunter presented Trevor Forrest, Executive Director of Saskatoon Community Foundation, with a cheque for $175,000—net proceeds from the Inaugural Mayor’s Cultural Gala held September 22nd.

Over 600 people attended the Gala that showcased Saskatoon talent. Performances included: North Saskatchewan Regiment Pipes and Drums, Amati Quartet, Robin Moncrief, Andrea Menard, Fireside Singers, Pavylechenko Folklorique Ensemble and the University of Saskatchewan House Band with Brent Loucks as Master of Ceremonies.

“I was very proud to host this inaugural event,” said Mayor Atchison. “We’ve launched an exciting new tradition in Saskatoon that will have a lasting benefit to the people of the city.”

Bart Hunter, Event Chair and Board Member, thanked the sponsors and volunteers that made the evening successful. “Saskatoon Community Foundation is an amazing organization that’s part of a beautiful, progressive city. Our mission is to make Saskatoon the best place to live.”

Trevor Forrest, Executive Director of Saskatoon Community Foundation, explained that the proceeds of the Gala will become part of the Foundation’s permanent endowment fund. “Each year interest from the endowment fund goes to charity and back into the fund so it continues to grow. The money raised by the Mayor’s Gala will continue to benefit the people of Saskatoon forever.”

Saskatoon Community Foundation is one of 158 community foundations across Canada. Community foundations build and manage permanent endowments to support local charities. Saskatoon Community Foundation’s endowment reached $17 million in 2007. Established in 1970, the Foundation has since granted over $6 million to charity. In 2006 grants totaled $732,000.

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Media, for more information:

Trevor Forrest Executive Director
Saskatoon Community Foundation
(306) 665-1768