Crafts, baking and community spirit come together for AMGH Foundation

The Bluffs Charity Committee is made up of 23 members who dedicate their time and effort to giving back to a community that they’re proud of.

For five years, The Bluffs Charity Committee has rallied the community around craft markets, bake sales and raffles and this year’s event promises to be the biggest yet.

Last year, The Bluffs Charity Committee raised $30,000 all together to support the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital (AMGH) Foundation.

The committee plans to continue that stride in 2025 with hosting The Bluffs at Huron Winter and Craft Sale Artisan Market at Goderich Sunset Golf Course.

“At first, we started as a social committee, I just felt it was important for us to give back to the community. A lot of people are not born and raised here in Goderich, and I just felt like we put a strain on the resources here in town,” said Marlene Hodgins, chair of The Bluffs Charity Committee.  

“Especially the hospital because a lot of the community is above the 55 plus demographic and I just felt like it would be nice to give back to the community. Throughout the year we raise funds for the hospice and women's shelter as well.” 

Sherry Lacasse, volunteer member at The Bluffs Charity Committee said that this will be the first time the event will be hosted at the golf course.

Attendees can expect an assortment of sellable items from vendors such as handmade bags, rock painting, leather works, maple syrup, butter tarts, homemade jewelry, as well as anything that can be hand made.

“You must help support the community; we must support the local people. From the response that we get from the public that comes in, it’s a very busy day and everyone is enjoying socializing with each other,” said Lacasse. 

The upcoming Bluffs Charity Market will give local artisans and small businesses a chance to showcase their crafts and keep what they make.

Alongside vendor sales, the committee will host a bake sale and manage a raffle, with proceeds directed to the AMGH Foundation.

“One of the mandates was to keep our fundraising efforts local within our own community here, we should give back to our adopted town. Personally, I feel like nothing makes you feel better than to give back and help out,” said Hodgins.

“Throughout the year, we do silent auctions, garage sales, our events have really grown each year along with the charity membership. This community is fantastic; they really get on board with these things.”