Last week, we proudly hosted our 16th Annual Making A Difference Speakers Series, and it was an incredibly meaningful day from start to finish!
A heartfelt thank you to Jay Dearborn (
@j.dearborn ) for being such an impactful keynote speaker. As a 2x Olympic bobsled athlete, former CFL player, and now our Athlete & Education Ambassador with BGC South East, Jay shared his journey through athletics, education, and life with honesty and perspective that truly resonated. We are so grateful for the time, energy, and care he put into connecting with our youth and our community.
The day began at Sydenham High School, where Jay returned to speak with over 200 students, offering encouragement, real-life insight, and a message that stuck with them well beyond the room. That momentum carried into the evening at the DoubleTree by Hilton, where we welcomed a full room of community members, business partners, BGC staff, and family and friends for a powerful and engaging gala.
We are deeply thankful to our sponsors and business partners whose support makes this event possible each year. A special thank you to our title sponsor CIBC Wood Gundy for their continued commitment to our mission, as well as our table and event sponsors:
@cunninghamswanlawyers , Alex McCoy Plumbing & Heating,
@cintas_corp , Kids for Kids, Benefits Consulting Plus,
@barrhomes_ ,
@wilkinsonandcompanyllp ,
@mcdougall_insurance , Secura Financial Group, Corcoran Excavating,
@brooklandhomes ,
@limestonedsb ,
@algonquin_lakeshore ,
@doubletreebyhiltonkingston ,
@bergeroncliffordllp ,
@stlawrencecollege ,
@bourgonconstruction ,
@kinsmenclubkingston ,
@environmentall , James Brown & Joan Lee,
@countysips ,
@hughsongroup ,
@mackinnonbrewing ,
@harwoodestatevineyards , and
@thecountybounty
To everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and supported in any way - thank you. We host this event each year to invest in local children and youth, and are honoured by everyone who chooses to stand behind that. Funds raised go toward our programs in STEM, literacy, sports, mentoring, and more, helping young people build confidence, skills, and a strong future.
