Second Darren's Day Another Success for Family, Community

The Second Annual Darren’s Day was another success for families and community members with $7,765 being raised as a result.

Organizers of the event stated that ideal weather ensured families came out to the event at the Palmerston Community Centre on Family Day, February 18. Participants enjoyed breakfast by Minto Fire Service, lunch by Palmerston Lions, a sno pitch tournament organized by Palmerston Marlins, winter festival games by Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington (CSGW), and shinny with Minto 81s players.The highlight of the day was the Tug A Truck at noon where Minto Fire Service prevailed against Wellington County OPP. Music was provided in the morning by 88.7FM The River.

There were additional features for 2020, including Darren’s Day Toques and a cookie bar thanks to Carry On Women’s Institute. Plunger Toss was back, and Toilet Seat Toss was introduced to curious patrons.

Those on hand for the announcement include, from left, Minto Fire Service Fire Chief Chris Harrow, CSGW Chair Deryck West, CSGW member and family member Dennis Craven, Palmerston Marlins Secretary Mary Iles, Pam More, family member Brad Craven, Palmerston Lions 1st Vice President Fred Smith, Wellington County OPP PC Bridget Jeffray, family member Erica Dice, family member Brayden More, family member Elizabeth Craven, family member Laird More and Town of Minto Recreation Services Coordinator. Absent from photo, Recreation Services Manager Matt Lubbers and CSGW Program Coordinator Sarah Bowers-Peter.

“As wonderful as it is to see donations increase over last year’s amazing numbers, the best part of Darren’s Day is seeing families getting together and enjoying each other,” said Sarah Bowers-Peter, Program Coordinator for Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington (CSGW). “Whether it was snowshoeing or checking out the board and card games, we saw families making memories. We know that’s exactly what Darren would have wanted.”

Darren More was killed in a motor vehicle collision on July 11, 2018 when his pickup truck was struck by a stolen pickup truck. The driver of that vehicle was impaired by drugs.

More’s wife, Pam More, designated three benefactors of the proceeds from Darren’s day; Minto Minor Sports, Community Improvement and CSGW.

“Being able to share Family Day with so many from the surrounding community was wonderful. It really means so much to us as a family to be able to turn such a negative time into something positive,” said More. “Coming together and sharing a fun day while raising funds to put back into a community that has supported our family through so much feels great. It is definitely a day we are proud to call Darren’s Day. A huge thank you to all of the partners and everyone that came out to participate.”

The committee agreed that Darren’s Day will be back for 2021.

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