Chandra Sharma, President and CEO, speaking at podium (courtesy of Conservation Halton)
The Conservation Halton Foundation marked its 50th anniversary in grand fashion with the 7th annual Blue Gala.
Held on Thursday, June 12th, at Area 8 Conservation Area, the signature fundraiser drew more than 340 guests and raised over $300,000 in support of local environmental projects and the region’s cherished blue spaces. The evening celebrated five decades of environmental impact – and set the stage for transformative work in the decades ahead.
The nature-filled event featured keynote speaker Mark Robinson, storm-chaser and Weather Network personality, who spoke about the urgent need to address climate change and the increasingly “warmer, wetter and wilder” weather patterns. Guests were also treated to live music, a live wood carving demonstration by Robbin Wenzoski, and the Crawford Lake – Where Waters Gather photo exhibit by Rob de Loe, along with a silent auction and 50/50 raffle.
“This year’s Blue Gala gave us the opportunity to reflect on 50 tremendous years of success thanks to the efforts of the Conservation Halton Foundation and its network of supporters, donors and Board members,” says Chandra Sharma, President and CEO of Conservation Halton. “Moving forward into our next 50 years, we are planning significant watershed restoration, climate change, outdoor education and infrastructure projects to meet demands both in the watershed and in our parks. Bold action is required. Knowing we have a community of supporters behind us gives us tremendous confidence as we embark upon this ambitious mandate.”
Adding to the celebration, Garner Beckett, Executive Director of the Foundation, announced the naming of a new trail connecting Kelso and Area 8: The Foundation 50 Trail.
“It was such an honour to celebrate 50 years of incredible achievements of the Conservation Halton Foundation with our closest supporters and friends at Area 8,” says Beckett. “We encourage everyone to explore this trail in the coming weeks and reflect on the power of community to drive impact and connection.”
To learn more about the event or to support the Conservation Halton Foundation, click here.
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