The Coffee for a Cause fundraiser brewed up more than just great coffee on Thursday evening as it brought the community together in support of Steinbach Community Outreach (SCO).
The event raised funds for several of SCO’s programs, including Today House, the Drop-In Centre, and The Bridge, which is an affordable housing initiative for low-income families and individuals.
Guests enjoyed sliders, dessert, and specialty coffee with friends, while also taking in music and personal stories.
SCO’s Executive Director, Madeleine Theissen, was pleasantly surprised by the turnout, especially for a brand-new event.
“It has turned out really well. It's a little quieter so people can hear themselves talk, and it's really nice to be able to communicate at the tables. It's been just so far, I think it's a success.”
A total of 176 people attended the event, helping raise an impressive $46,307, and Theissen says Bentwood Hall was a great venue!
Coffee holds special meaning at SCO, especially at the Drop-In Centre, where it plays a key role in building relationships.
“It's a connection-based thing. So, people that come into the Drop In Centre, they are looking for a way to connect with other people. So they sit at the tables, and they drink coffee, and they have snacks, and as volunteers and as staff, we go out and we meet them where they're at, and it's an amazing journey to be on too. So we just love our people, and we just love connecting with them and seeing where they're at during the day.”
The success of the event was a clear sign of strong community support, something Theissen deeply appreciates.
“Thank you so much for coming out to support us, it means a great deal. We can't do what we do without our community, and by the looks of who's all out here, we have a very strong connection with the community, so thank you.”
The evening also featured a moment of reflection on the recent leadership transition at SCO. Founder and long-time Executive Director Irene Kroeker has moved into a new role as Community Resource Coordinator, while Theissen, formerly the Head Advocate, has stepped into the role of Executive Director.
Theissen reflects on her unexpected path to leadership.
“Well, it's very interesting because six years ago, I never thought I'd be this far. I was just going to volunteer because my sister passed away, and it was just a hard thing for me.”
After her son suffered a stroke and began to recover, former Executive Director Irene Kroeker approached her with an opportunity to join full-time.
“I said yeah, of course, because I can't say no to God, because he called me to do this. So I'm like, Yeah, I'm good to go. So, it's been an amazing journey here, and Irene will never be replaced, just so you know, that is never going to happen because she's an icon in the community, and I just hope to live up to half of what she has done here.”
With files from Andrea Turner
@steinbach_online At Steinbach Community Outreach's recent Coffee for a Cause fundraiser, Irene Kroeker was thanked for her time as Executive Director as the position has now been passed on to Madeleine Theissen! #SteinbachCommunityOutreach ♬ original sound - SteinbachOnline
Check out these photos from the event: