Operation Red Nose Quinte will drive hundreds of people and their vehicles home safely this Christmas season in honour of four long-time volunteers who have passed away recently.
At the local Red Nose campaign kick-off event Saturday in the Avaya atrium the late Larry McCoy, Peter Cox, Mike Empey, and Henny Bergveld were recognized for their many years of service to the organization.
They will serve as this year’s campaign co-chairs, replacing MIX97’s Sean Kelly and Orlena Cain.
All were described as dedicated and hard working volunteers who loved helping people and making the area a safer one.
The mayors of Belleville and Quinte West, Mitch Panciuk and Jim Harrison respectively, thanked the hundreds of volunteers who’ve made Red Nose the success it has been since it began back in 1997.
Last year volunteers drove almost 40,000 kilometres and $40,000 was granted to two local organizations.
The YMCA received $30,000 while Camp Trillium was given $10,000.
Back in 1997, the “Y” received just $5,000.
Amanda Smith, General Manager of the Belleville YMCA, welcomes over 50 volunteers and supporters at the Red Nose Quinte campaign kick-off Saturday. (Photo: Quinte News)
Operation Red Nose is a free service but donations from clients are gratefully accepted.
This year Red Nose crews will hit the road beginning November 29.
Volunteers are needed. Go to the Red Nose website to sign up or contact them by email
at rednosequinte@gmail.com.
Rick Watt, leader of Operation Red Nose Quinte, holds up some of this year’s clothing, which is available to the public as part of the fundraising effort. (Photo: John Spitters/Quinte News)
