To The Stan and Back to host 10th annual Party Under The Star to raise funds to support initiatives for military personnel

To the Stan and Back is a charity dedicated to supporting Canadian Military members and first responders. ‘The Stan’ refers to Afghanistan, and the charity was started by the mother of a military member, Cheri Elliott, who was awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal for her service to the Canadian Armed Forces. 

Elliott said, “it was really a delayed response to 9/11, and I wanted to give something tangible to thank our serving men and women for their service to our country.”

Over the years, To the Stan and Back has used fundraiser money to support many initiatives for military members and first responders. The charity began with Elliott meeting returning members at the airfield and providing gift certificates – over $200,000 worth – as a token of thanks for their service and their sacrifices. 

“Other than having my children, I think that was probably one of the greatest honours of my life, to be there when they touched ground in Canada, to say thank you,” said Elliott. 

The charity has since expanded to include first responders and has made donations of over $117,000 to post-combat wellness programs, and $105,000 to Canadian Force Base Mess Halls for electronic and recreational equipment.

On May 6, 2019, for the 10th year, To the Stan and Back will be hosting its main fundraising event, Party Under the Stars, which will be taking place at Ottawa’s City Hall at 6 pm. 

Alan Frew, of Glass Tiger fame, will be performing, and the event will be co-emcee by Mercedes Stephenson and M.P. John Brassard. The event will bring Military members, politicians, entertainers, and more, together to support the charity’s cause. 

This year To the Stan and Back aims to raise at least $20,000 at their signature fundraising event. The funds would enable them to continue to provide valuable services to military members and first responders.

Tickets can be purchased for $40.00, which includes all beverages and hors d’oeuvres.  Visit To The Stan and Back’s website for more information about Party Under the Stars and to purchase tickets.