Shivering fawns abandoned after human contact, coyotes tangled in barbed wire, turtles injured on roadways… the modern world is hazardous for wildlife. Thankfully, there are caring individuals who help to rehabilitate them and preserve our natural environment. Despite many volunteer hours, the costs to provide shelter, food and veterinary care can be significant. This year, Rhonda, Brandon and Brittanie Grant envisioned and organized the first ever golf tournament in support of the Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre.
“My daughter Brittanie is a past volunteer at Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre and she saw firsthand the needs of the animals,” says Rhonda. “We met with Sue Meech, the Founder and Director, who told us that she was trying to raise funds for a wildlife hospital. Very generous donors Kenneth D. Collins and Ilka Hrynchyshyn offered half a million dollars for construction, if the community pitched in. We wanted to help.”
Rhonda and Brandon Grant, also known as “Your Grant Team” from Sutton Group – Masters Realty Inc., and Brittanie promoted the event, worked out the logistics and attracted participants and sponsors. The golf tournament was held on a beautiful, sunny day in late May at the Camden Braes Golf and Country Club in Camden East and raised an impressive $6,334. Rhonda is pleased to report that Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre broke ground on the new hospital on August 6, 2014.
“This success could not have been achieved without contributions from Vicki Gannon, Mobile Mortgage Specialist, and RBC, who together offered a $10,000 hole in one prize; the Best Western Fireside Inn, which donated a fantasy suite for the putting contest winner; and CIBC Mobile Mortgage Specialist Rebecca Dick, who funded coffee and muffins for golfers. Thank you to all of our sponsors and participants!”
Due to the overwhelmingly positive response, the Grants are planning another tournament for June 2015.
Pictured (left to right): Sue Meech, Founder and Director of the Sandy Pines Wildlife Centre, and Rhonda Grant, REALTOR®.
This story was adapted – with permission – from one originally featured on the Sutton Spirit website. The Sutton Spirit program recognizes Sutton associates across Canada that improve and enhance the lives of the people around them.
