By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
On Saturday, September 7, 2024, Burlington Helping Burlington brought together 100 families for a morning kids’ event, followed by an evening invite-only fundraiser at Squires Burlington. The intimate gathering of approximately 40 guests enjoyed appetizers while listening to live music, creating a scene reminiscent of the Shonda Rhimes show Bridgerton.
Attendees were invited to donate through a QR code, with contributions ranging from $25 to $500. The event was organized in celebration of Burlington Helping Burlington recently receiving its charity status just three weeks ago. This exciting milestone prompted the group to host their fundraising event on September 7 to mark the occasion. The evening also celebrated the grand reopening of Squires, with Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward officiating the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“This space is incredible. The bar is amazing, and the food is awesome,” said the mayor, recognizing the restaurant’s reopening and Burlington Helping Burlington’s one-year anniversary, emphasizing the event’s focus on community togetherness.
Restaurant owner Satish Kalla, along with his family, expressed gratitude to the mayor and his team for their support. Kalla, who designed a space evocative of Soho Lounge in Toronto with the help of a professional designer, held a soft opening in July and offers a “kids eat free on weekends” promotion until the end of September, which may be extended beyond this month. Kalla’s desire to help and support the community was evident in his enthusiasm for the event and his commitment to hosting future initiatives at Squires.
Entertainment for the evening was provided by the Blue Moon group, while Chef Mark Jonathan and his team at Squires ensured that guests enjoyed a delightful culinary experience. The night also featured raffle prizes, including Maple Leafs and Raptors tickets, and Squires gift certificates.
Julie Neal, a director of Burlington Helping Burlington, shared insights into the grassroots nature of the group. Comprising four community members, including a school teacher, a communications expert, a dog grooming business owner, and a busy retiree, the group has acted as a bridge between local charities and businesses, organizing events to raise funds and support for various causes. Neal spoke passionately about their mission, explaining how they’ve partnered with local businesses to host fundraising events, with Burlington Helping Burlington acting as the go-between to secure sponsorships and prizes.
Neal also highlighted the origins of Burlington Helping Burlington as a Facebook group entitled “Burlington Together,” which began during the pandemic when co-founders Vicki Trottier and Michael Desjardins launched the initiative as a way to unite the community during a time of uncertainty and need.
“It was the time where we didn’t even have toilet paper, and people were wondering who could help,” Neal recalled.
What started as a small effort to assist local residents of Burlington has now grown into an online community of over 50,000 members, used to promote fundraising events and raise awareness for local causes, as well as for community members to post good news messages or to ask questions of their neighbours.
Neal and her family organized multiple food and bottle drives during the pandemic, raising $8,000 and 20,000 pounds of food for the Burlington Food Bank. The following year, they repeated their efforts, collecting another $8,000 for the Compassion Society.
One of Neal’s personal healing practices with her son is hosting fundraising events, through which they raised $11,000. Neal primarily uses Facebook and word of mouth to promote these efforts, showcasing the power of social media in keeping the community connected.
Burlington Helping Burlington’s first fundraising event took place at AB Sports Bar, whose owner was also present at the Squires event, celebrating the ongoing collaboration. With notable figures and organizations, such as representatives from the Burlington Chamber of Commerce and Burlington Food Bank, directors of the Compassion Society,, as well as Mayor Meed Ward in attendance, the evening was a testament to the community spirit that Burlington Helping Burlington continues to cultivate.
The evening at Squires highlighted more than just great food and entertainment — it was a celebration of community, collaboration, and the power of local initiatives. With support from key community figures and businesses, Burlington Helping Burlington continues to bridge gaps between residents, charities, and businesses, proving that when like-minded people come together, everyone benefits. As Burlington Helping Burlington celebrates its first anniversary and newly granted charity status, the event at Squires exemplifies how much can be achieved when local businesses and caring residents join forces for a greater cause.
