CARSTAIRS - The group 100 Strong Carstairs recently held its first gathering and gave away $2,800 to one organization.
Essentials for the Community, which recently expanded into Carstairs from Didsbury, was chosen over two other local charities to get the pooled amount.
Rayel Walker, main organizer, said the event went very well with 28 people showing up, each giving $100, which was pooled to give to the night's chosen winner.
"It was an amazing evening," said Walker. "We feel it went off without a hitch with great support from our community and three local charities that came to present. Our goal is 100 people, so to have over 25 per cent of that in our first meeting in our first year shows the support from the community."
Walker said that Essentials for our Community gave a great presentation.
"The three nominated presenters were all very deserving of winning and did a great job of presenting their causes," she said. "Ultimately, it was up to our members to vote on who received the funds and Essentials for our Community was the top vote-getter and received $2,800 from our group."
Sheree Andrews, chair for Essentials, told the Gazette the money will help the organization to be able to help less fortunate residents of Carstairs with gas and grocery cards as well as with mentoring.
"It was fantastic to be chosen," said Andrews. "It was a great opportunity to speak to the group. We loved that they saw our vision and what we've been able to do in the community."
The 100 Strong Carstairs group will be meeting next on Dec. 10 at Barley's Pub with registration at 7 p.m. For more information please check out its website at 100strongcarstairs.com.
