This fall has been a busy one for the Cochrane and District Community Foundation.
Not only is the community organization gearing up for its fall dinner, the foundation is on the receiving end of a generous bequest from the late Gertrude Hawkwood.
“We’re thrilled,” said Tim Harvie, chairman of the foundation’s board. “This is a wonderful legacy for her to leave — it’s inspiring.”
Hawkwood, who lived in both the Bearspaw and Cochrane areas in her lifetime, passed in March 2013.
Harvie knew Hawkwood, having attended school with her two daughters, Glenda and Kathleen.
He described Gertrude as a strong and frugal woman, who gave everything back to the community.
“What Gertie had done for the community — it was remarkable,” said Harvie. “Now, she’s left a legacy for that community. She deserves to be honoured.”
While Harvie said the amount bequested by Hawkwood’s estate to the foundation’s endowment fund is to remain confidential, he said the donation will go a long way in impacting the Cochrane community.
Since it’s inception in 1993, the Cochrane Foundation has put about $700,000 back into the community.
The philanthropic organization has supported area initiatives such as Citizens on Patrol, Cochrane and Area Victim Services Society, Cochrane Curling Club and the Bearspaw Historical Society. The Cochrane Foundation Fall Dinner is slated to occur Oct. 25 at the Links of GlenEagles golf course.
A fundraiser for the organization, the proceeds collected at the event will — like the Hawkwood bequest — go to grow the endowment fund.
This year’s dinner will feature John Amatt, a motivational speaker, author and Everest expedition leader who will be regaling the crowd with tales of adventure. Founding director of the Banff Mount
in Film Festival, Amatt has addresses more than 2,000 audiences on six different continents.
In addition, the evening will pay tribute to Glen Boles, a retiring board member, and feature a live auction hosted by the quick-talking John Copithorne. And a handful of members from the Cochrane Art Club will be hard at work as “Artists in Action,” finishing pieces of artwork in front of the dinnergoers.
Guests will also be privy to a major announcement regarding a new development for the foundation.
Tickets can be purchased for $100 at ATB Financial in Cochrane or by calling 403-472-7714.
