Left to Right: Matthew McGuinty (Norfolk County), Brent McKay (KidSport), Sharon Haviland, Michael Sidenberg (Boston Pizza), Rick Haviland and Jean Montgomery (KidSport)
Earlier this May, in partnership with Boston Pizza Simcoe, “Brody’s Bash for KidSport” raised more than $4000 for KidSport Norfolk.
Rick and Sharon Haviland’s son Brody passed away at the age of 38 due to heart failure. Wanting to memorialize his passing, the family looked to Brody’s love of sport and his involvement in baseball.
Brent McKay and Jean Montgomery were on hand yesterday (Thursday) when the Haviland’s and Boston Pizza presented KidSport with a cheque for $4100.
McKay talked to us about where this amazing donation will be going.
While there are specific fundraising endeavors for hockey or baseball or any specific sport, KidSport wanted to cast a wide net.
McKay said, at the end of the day, their big focus is to get money and help local kids who want to enjoy the love of the game – whatever that game may be.
Brody had always been an athlete. His mother Sharon pointed out the many life lesson he had learned while participating. It was important to Mr. Haviland, who also coached local baseball, that the money raised remain in Norfolk County. The charity they chose was KidSport. A perfect fit for what the Haviland’s were looking for.
Mike McCarthy, a childhood friend of Brody’s and co-owner of Boston Pizza in Simcoe joined the team and offered the “Dine for a cause” program and Brody’s Bash was born. On May 8th a portion of each meal was donated to the cause. There was also a 50/50 draw and a silent auction that took place.
If you know a child or teen in Norfolk County that KidSport could help, or would like to donate visit their website at kidsportcanada.ca
Written by Matt LeBlanc