Local residents to host fundraiser for family

A group of Airdrie residents has banded together to help a family in need.

The group, ‘Tis the Season to Believe, was recently founded by resident and home-based hair stylist Carol Wojtowich after she heard about the family in need.

“A couple of my clients were talking about this one particular family… and I really thought ‘I need to do something to help,’” said Wojtowich. “(We named the group) ‘Tis the Season to Believe, because we have to believe in our community. I was a young single mom… I understand how a family that is down on their luck and living paycheque to paycheque (feels).”

Wojtowich contacted several friends, who also own home-based businesses, with the idea of hosting an event in her home featuring the businesses’ products, with all profits going to the family.

However, Wojtowich said there was much more interest in the event than she anticipated , causing the group to change its plans.

‘Tis the Season to Believe is now hosting the event at the Airdrie Curling Club, which is located at the Town and Country Centre, on Nov. 4. The sale will feature a number of vendors and will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase clothes, jewelry, goods for the home, spices and unique gifts. Wojtowich said organizers are also open to vendors willing to donate to the family.

The event will also include a raffle and silent auction and organizers have been collecting a number of items from Airdrie-based businesses including gift certificates to local restaurants, art, home goods, a large bevelled mirror and unique gift items.

Wojtowich said she is thrilled with the response from the community.

“Airdrie is such a beautiful community,” she said. “We are all close knit, but I wasn’t expecting it to be as big as it is right now.”

Wojtowich said the group had hoped to raise a few hundred dollars to help the family, but members have no idea what to expect now that the event has grown.

She encourages residents to get involved.

“Come and support your community and get a little bit of a head start on your Christmas shopping,” said Wojtowich.

Michelle Charuk, one of the organizers, said she is so happy to be part of the group and to have the opportunity to give back to the community.

“I have been very fortunate in my life,” said. “It is just time to give back. I like to make a difference here, I know that there are tons of people in Airdrie that need the help. I am so fortunate to be able to help.”

For more information or to make a donation to the event, contact Charuk at 403-860-1428.