Vicki L MorrisonThe Annual Camp Maple Leaf Celebrity Golf Classic took place September 18, 2014 at the Willow Valley Golf Course in Mount Hope, Ontario. Organizers successfully raised $25,000 at the one day event.
The Classic relies on Canadian celebrities to bolster attendance.
“This year Walter Gretzky was our honorary ambassador. He really is a national treasure. Everyone who meets him just loves him. Walter fancies himself an expert golfer. After seeing him golf I’m not too sure about that,” laughed Chris McCullough, co-chair of the event.
Military members participated by golfing and helping run the event. National Hockey League players and other sports celebrities joined in, including hockey star Marty McSorley.
“This year golfers had the opportunity to win a car, an ATV, and flat screen televisions. A delicious lunch and dinner were provided to all,” said McCullough.
Camp Maple Leaf is more than a summer camp. Located on a 104 acre island in the Kawarthas, camp programs promote the development of self-confidence, self-esteem, problem solving skills, leadership and conflict resolution for children.
Disabled military children, children of the fallen, injured, currently or recently deployed are welcome to apply to attend camp. Applications are evaluated case by case by Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services.
Since its establishment in 1955 by the Canadian Council of War Veterans, over 30,000 children have enjoyed the transformative experience of Camp Maple Leaf.
All over the world, the Canadian Military establish a Camp Maple Leaf in the areas where they are on active duty. The camp is built when the military is first deployed to the area, and is left behind for the community to use. During their time on tour, Camp Maple Leaf is a place of safety for military members to be able to rest, relax, and recuperate.
The Camp Maple Leaf summer camp is named after this tradition. Camp Maple Leaf was originally created as a living memorial, paying tribute to Canadian soldiers who sacrificed their lives for peace. Their vision was that no child would be turned away from Camp for economic reasons. The Camp was developed without government funding.
Please visit www.campmapleleaf.ca for more information about the camp.
Please visit Camp Maple Leaf Application for details on applying for camp positions.
