TEESWATER – Teeswater residents Peter and Jo Ann Carter have been champions for local charities by raising funds through donations and pledges for over 40 years.
Peter organized his first supporting event in 1982, a ball tournament in support of charities such as the Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce and the Alzheimer Society of Huron County. Peter first became aware of Alzheimer disease when a close relative was diagnosed. Peter, with help from his wife Jo Ann, decided to make a difference by volunteering and raising funds for causes he felt needed more attention.
With three young children, a farm and a career in law enforcement, Peter was determined to leave a legacy to be proud of while making a difference in his community. A strong connection to the community, honesty and transparency are the three pillars that they have used as part of their success.
Peter and Jo Ann calculated that they have raised $10,400 for local charities as well as $8,000 for Ukraine support efforts. In total, the Carters tallied $105,636 over their fundraising career.
“We keep records of every pledge we have collected over the years,” Peter said.
These efforts have not gone unnoticed by local charities. Peter was also the recipient of the Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce Forget Me Not award in 2020, demonstrating leadership in areas such as providing care, raising awareness and increasing inclusion, acceptance and understanding in Grey and Bruce counties; the Gannon Volunteer Service Award for Huron County 2018; and the Ontario 5-year and 10-year service awards.
“We are so appreciative of Peter and Jo Ann’s support and dedication to increase awareness and raise much needed funds for Alzheimer disease and other dementias. Their commitment to making communities stronger over the last 40 years is a true inspiration,” says Julie Johnston, executive director of the Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce.
Peter reflected on his time fundraising for the local Alzheimer Societies.
“People are much more aware of the disease now than 40 years ago, and often know someone who passed away or currently has it,” he said.
Currently, over 260,000 Ontarians live with dementia. As Ontario’s population ages, the number of people living with Alzheimer disease and other forms of dementia is expected to double within a generation.
Peter and Jo Ann credit their fundraising success through the friendships they’ve made over the years while taking very few winter vacations. They have dedicated their recent local fundraising goals and support the Walk for Alzheimer’s in honour of a dear family friend who had the disease.
Peter is also a national crokinole champion and has used his love of the game in a tournament dedicated to raising funds for the Alzheimer Societies in Grey, Bruce and Huron counties. People from all over Ontario attended the event in 2021.
Peter shared some advice for those wishing to raise funds locally.
“Be yourself; don’t try to be more than who you are. In some cases, you give back to the same people that give to you, and that’s what builds community,” he said. “The key is helping others in need. You never feel alone when you’ve made these friendships and raise money for those who need it.”
Peter and Jo Ann continue to influence their family and friends on how important it is to give back to their community, but shared it is time for them to enjoy their retirement and pass the torch on to others.
