Charities can now apply for funding from the Magna Hoedown, considered the largest annual fundraiser in York Region organized by Aurora-based Magna International Inc.
So far in its three-decades long history, the Hoedown has raised more than $12 million for hundreds of local charities, non-profits and community groups, including more than $538,000 last year alone.
And as Magna gets set to celebrate the 31st anniversary of the Magna Hoedown this year, with the main event scheduled for Friday, Sept. 13 and Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, applications from local charities are being accepted.
This year, 20 York Region charities, non-profits and community groups will be selected as recipients of the Hoedown proceeds. The selection of all Hoedown recipients is based on the needs of the organization, as well as their ability to successfully complete all tasks required.
Charity applications for the 2019 Magna Hoedown must be submitted by 4 p.m. on March 28, 2019.
“I don’t know of another event anywhere that has lasted for 30 years, that has raised over $12 million for hundreds of charities, and involved thousands of volunteers," Steve Hinder, manager of Magna for Community and chair of the Hoedown organizing committee, said in the lead-up to the 2018 Hoedown. "This year, we are over 750 volunteers. Although Magna covers the entire cost of the Hoedown, it couldn't be done without them rolling up their sleeves."
“It’s the epitome of a community event,” Hinder said of Canada’s largest fundraiser.
In addition to the funds raised, the Hoedown impacts the community by hosting the Magna Student Hoedown, a free concert and luncheon for more than 1,000 York Region students with disabilities. It also fosters the arts through the Magna Hoedown Showdown country-music talent competition, maintains a zero-waste policy to enhance environmental sustainability, and offers an opportunity for York Region residents to become engaged in their community.
You can download an application here.
For more information on the program, contact manager Erin Cerenzia at 905-726-3737, ext. 27 or by email at [email protected].
