THUNDER BAY – Rainy weather and cool temperatures last month did not dampen the generosity of those taking part in the annual Mayor’s Mulligan Golf Tournament.
Participants raised $15,694, money which will be used to support PRO Kids, a city-run organization that provides sporting opportunities and equipment to children who might otherwise not be able to afford to take part in organized athletic activities outside school.
Melanie Tibishkogijig has two children and four grandchildren benefit from PRO Kids over the years and said they wouldn’t have been able to play many of the sports, especially Canada’s national pastime.
“Hockey is really expensive and I have four that are in hockey, so it’s helped with that. It’s also helped with lacrosse, dance, gymnastics and baseball,” she said.
“It’s been so helpful, especially with a single-income family, I wouldn’t be able to afford to be able to put them into sports, especially sports like hockey. It has helped a lot, not only me financially, but especially my kids. It has helped my babies be more confident within themselves to build that self-esteem and to have something to look forward to every week.”
Mayor Bill Mauro, who took over the tradition begun by then mayor Lynn Peterson and continued by her successor, Keith Hobbs, said it’s a great cause and equally great to such a big number on the over-sized cheque presented on Monday morning at city hall.
“A lot of people came out. The committee worked very hard and the staff within the City of Thunder Bay worked very hard and I’m sure they’ve already begun planning for next year,” Mauro said. “The numbers are really remarkable ... I think over a thousand kids on average for years seem to be benefiting through this through PRO Kids.
“It really is impactful in the community and that’s what it’s all about.”
