On July 5, the Valleyview Co-op C-Store/Gas Bar in Virden was buzzing with energy and purpose as 10-year-old Bowen Wolfe hosted his very first lemonade stand fundraiser in partnership with Valleyview Co-op. His goal? To raise money for D-Camps, a specialized summer camp program for children living with Type 1 Diabetes.
Bowen, who was diagnosed with Juvenile Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 6, has already participated in multiple Junior Diabetes Research Foundation Walk for a Cure fundraisers in both Regina and Winnipeg.
This year, he took his advocacy to a new level by organizing the lemonade stand, and his hard work paid off. Bowen exceeded his goal, raising an incredible $1,883 in a single day.
“Bowen is very passionate about awareness and fundraising for Juvenile Type 1 Diabetes, being diagnosed himself at the age of 6,” said Jill Johnston, Bowen’s mom. “This is his first time teaming up with Valleyview Co-op to do the lemonade stand. He put in a lot of hard work, and as a result, he exceeded his fundraising goal for D-Camps.”
“I had so much fun selling lemonade and raising money for D-Camps,” said Bowen. “I’m excited for the opportunity to attend the camp at Lake of the Woods, Ontario, this summer, where I will be safe with doctors and nurses running the camp. I hope all Type 1 kids like me get the chance to go to D-Camp.”
Amber Vandale Torrance, Public Relations and Marketing Manager for Valleyview Co-op, was impressed with Bowen’s enthusiasm and dedication.
“Bowen embodies our Valleyview Co-op values of Integrity, Community and Excellence. Although his family provided support, Bowen was completely hands-on with every aspect of his fundraising project. We want to thank our Virden C-Store team, especially Debra and Brayden, for encouraging our guests to invest in this worthwhile cause.”
Valleyview Co-op is proud to support initiatives that empower youth and strengthen our community. A huge thank you goes out to everyone who stopped by the lemonade stand and made this fundraiser such a success.