Sometimes it seems like residents and cottagers inhabit separate worlds. Bryan Baker and his wife Andrea Matheson, Davis Lake cottagers, are working to change that.
“We enjoy the beauty of Haliburton Highlands,” Baker says, “but we are also aware that there is a great need for community services here, where the incidence of childhood poverty is among the highest in the province.”
Baker has focused his volunteer and financial support on Point in Time, a local organization that believes, “when children or youth have difficulties the whole family is affected.”
Their aim is to promote the well-being of children, youth and parents in Haliburton County with a wide range of services.
Whether children or youth have mental health issues, are experiencing conflict at school or home, are at risk with the law, or are in need of counselling, Point in Time can help.
Point in Time also runs recreation programs and summer adventure camp, offering positive environments and relationships that can lead to hopeful futures.
What can one cottager do? Bryan Baker invited the Davis Lake Cottagers’ Association to participate in a fundraiser at his cottage on Aug. 11. He hired a live band, the hugely popular Fiddlestix, and sent out invitations. When the dark clouds threatened to rain on the party, he tarped up an area for the band and made a last minute trip to town to buy a tent. The weather co-operated, however, and donations rolled in for Point in Time.
Marg Cox, the organization’s executive director, was thrilled with the generous response of the Davis Lake cottagers and other guests. Bryan and Andrea want to issue a challenge to all cottager associations to support local organizations in the Highlands, from food banks to service groups.
“We feel a responsibility to give back to the community where we derive so much enjoyment,” Baker says.
Marg Cox also wants to thank Baker for securing a large gift for Point in Time from CIBC Wood Gundy, where he is first vice president.
The Children’s Miracle Foundation made a donation of $10, 000, which will go a long way to maintain programming.
Point In Time is a charitable, not-for-profit organization. Donate financially if you can, or donate your time through volunteering. Point in Time is looking to recruit drivers and respite volunteers. For more information, check out the website: www.pointintime.ca.