Benny Birch birthday party bidding farewell to city

Benny Birch is calling it a career.

The beloved community mascot, whose helped raise more than $1 million to support St. Joseph’s Care Group over the past three decades, will celebrate his final birthday party June 7 and 8 at Chippewa Park.

St. Joseph's Foundation officials say the fundraiser has run its course and there are simply too many other events going on during the summer months.

“These types of events take a lot of resources to make happen and unfortunately Benny’s Birthday has reached a stage where it isn’t viable to continue,” said Katrina O’Neill, the executive director at St. Joseph’s Foundation.

“Over the years we have seen a decline in attendance as more events take place, a decline in profits as the operating costs increase and a decline in volunteers as other events draw them away.”

Benny Birch may be retiring, but he won’t completely disappear. He’ll continue to make occasional appearances for the foundation and continue to the mascot for St. Joseph’s Care Group’s greening health-care inititatives.

Admission to the Benny Birch farewell birthday party is free and will include special activities and closing ceremonies.