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Good Works: Ontario youth trades initiative; Cold plunge fundraiser; $120K milestone

(Source: OnePoint Association of Realtors).

 

OnePoint Association of Realtors has launched a new regional initiative aimed at supporting youth, skilled trades and housing across Ontario.

The program, Foundations for the Future, represents an annual $146,000 investment and was introduced in Guelph with a $20,000 contribution to Habitat for Humanity Guelph Wellington. The funding marks the first in a series of community partnerships.

Developed by local members and delivered with Habitat for Humanity and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, the program kicked off with students preparing the ReStore for Habitat for Humanity Guelph Wellington’s 25th Anniversary open house.

“Foundations for the Future reflects the kind of local collaboration our communities need right now,” said Jennifer Morley, president of OnePoint Association of Realtors. She added that supporting the next generation of skilled trades professionals is key to strengthening housing outcomes and expanding opportunities for youth.

The Guelph launch is the first of 12 planned learning experiences in 2026, with more than 200 students expected to take part across the region.

OnePoint Association of Realtors represents more than 2,700 real estate professionals across multiple Ontario regions and supports a network that includes secondary schools, Habitat for Humanity affiliates and ReStore locations.

 

Cold plunge fundraiser returns to support Kawartha Lakes wellness hub

 

Organizer Dean Michel

Coboconk, Ont. -area residents are gearing up for a cold-water fundraiser with a growing community impact.

The 7th annual Jump in the Lake Challenge takes place May 2, with participants plunging into local lakes in support of the soon-to-open Summit Wellness Centre.

Launched in 2020 by Dean Michel and Jennifer Bacon of Kawartha Lakeside Realty, part of Century 21 Granite Realty Group, the event has raised more than $200,000 for local charities.

Unlike organized Polar Bear dips held in a single location, the event sees participants take the plunge from their own docks or waterfront spots.

“The Jump in the Lake Challenge embodies our strong community spirit. Year after year we are absolutely thrilled with how such a small action by a number of people has the ability to transform and inspire a small community,” said Michel.

The Summit Wellness Centre, expected to open later this summer, will provide health services and community space for underserved northern areas of Kawartha Lakes.

 

Royal LePage Triland raises more than $120K for charities in 2025

 

 

 

Royal LePage Triland Realty has raised $120,833.89 for charitable causes in 2025, with the majority of funds directed toward local shelters and initiatives aimed at ending domestic violence.

The brokerage, which has offices in London, St. Thomas, Woodstock, Ingersoll and Norwich, said $115,226.63 was donated to the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. An additional $5,607.26 was raised for other community organizations, including YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin and local food banks, according to the brokerage.

“To our agents, staff, and clients: thank you for helping us give back to the communities where we live and work. Together, we’re doing more than just moving houses—we’re building safer homes,” said a statement from Royal LePage Triland.

 

 

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