Sudbury ON – Growing up in Naughton, Sean Monahan remembers the Walden Winter Carnival as a highlight of long Northern winters. Decades later, the Carnival, taking place this February 8-11, is still an important part of his year.
“We always looked forward to it,” says Monahan, the principal advisor and director of Monahan Financial Planning Group Ltd.
When Monahan settled in Lively, he brought his three children to the event, where they’ve also served as volunteers over the years along with other team members’ families.
“As a dad attending the Carnival with my sons, I realized how much work goes into it each year. It takes hundreds of hours of volunteer effort and a budget made up of more than $5 button sales to make such a large and lasting event possible.”
That’s why Monahan’s business have been longtime supporters, and have now become the Carnival’s first Presenting Sponsor. This means more than just financial support – Monahan Financial Planning Group are ambassadors for the event, helping to bring a new generation of families out to Lively this coming February. They are also volunteers. Staff from the firm plan to roll up their winter coat sleeves and hand out hot drinks at the Carnival’s Anderson Farm site.
“My family and my team are proud to be involved,” says Monahan, “It is a real privilege to be able to play such a key role to support the new Carnival committee.”
The Walden Winter Carnival’s Chair Jennifer Anderson says without supporters like Sean Monahan, the event would never have made it to 51 years.
“Admission is only $5 per person – that is unheard of today. Costs are going up everywhere, but a Carnival Button is only $5. It means our event is accessible to so many more people, but it also means we need the community to play a big part.”
Anderson, in her first year as Chair, leads a committee of over 20 organizers who have been meeting regularly since August. Most of them are involved for the first time and getting a measure of the sheer size of the event.
“The Carnival is huge. There is no other way to say it. We are planning for over 100 attractions, activities and performances! Without sponsors and volunteers like Sean and his team we just couldn’t make it happen.”
The Presenting Sponsor will be recognized at the Opening Ceremonies on the evening of Thursday February 8th, which will be followed by a community bonfire and fireworks all taking place at TM Davies Arena. From there, the carnival lineup is spread across five sites from Friday to Sunday, including the always-packed Kids Zone at St. James Catholic School. Anderson is excited to announce the schedule will be released in mid January.
“Between now and then we have so much to do,” says Anderson, “but one of the most important tasks is firming up more sponsors and signing up dozens of volunteers. Every bit helps!”
Despite a great response, opportunities for sponsorship are still available, says Anderson. Individuals and organizations interested in being involved are invited to visit the Carnival website at www.waldenwintercarnival.com. Carnival Buttons are already on sale at participating businesses.
Recent Comments