River 50/50 Raises Thousands for Local Community Programs

Tanya Noyes • July 20, 2026

Grand prize winner receives $22,520 as the community fundraiser raises an equal amount to support United Way Leeds & Grenville's local community programs.

Photo (L-R): Angie Steele (Homelife DLK Real Estate), Steve Armstrong (1000 Islands Regatta), grand prize winners Garry and Carol D., and former United Way Leeds & Grenville Executive Director Hailie Jack during the presentation of the $22,520 River 50/50 grand prize cheque on Thursday, July 16.


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - River 50/50 Raises Thousands for Local Community Programs


Leeds & Grenville, ON – July 20, 2026 - The 2nd Annual River 50/50, presented by Homelife DLK Real Estate, has wrapped up another successful year, awarding $22,520 to one lucky winner while raising an equal amount to support United Way Leeds & Grenville's local community programs.


Congratulations to our 2026 winners:

• Toronto Getaway Package: Karen O.

• Get Outdoors Package: Bruce B.

• Grand Prize 50/50 Jackpot ($22,520): Garry D.


After a successful inaugural year, Homelife DLK Real Estate proudly returned as presenting sponsor, continuing its commitment to giving back to the communities where its REALTORS® live and work.


"After seeing the success of the inaugural River 50/50, we were proud to return as presenting sponsor for a second year. Giving back to the communities where we live and work is at the heart of who we are, and we're thrilled to see another successful campaign that benefits so many local residents."

– Angie Steele, Homelife DLK Real Estate


United Way Leeds & Grenville extends its sincere thanks to Homelife DLK Real Estate, the 1000 Islands Regatta, our Seed the Pot Sponsors, Early Bird Prize Sponsors, High Tide Sponsors, members of the 100 Local Business Challenge, volunteers, advertising partners, and everyone who purchased a ticket. Your support helps strengthen our community by funding programs and services that make a lasting difference across Leeds & Grenville.


United Way Leeds & Grenville, Homelife DLK Real Estate, and this year's prize winners gathered on July 16 for a cheque presentation celebrating another successful River 50/50. The event recognized the winners while celebrating the incredible support of the community, sponsors, volunteers, and partners who helped make this year's fundraiser a success. 


About Us

United Way Leeds & Grenville is dedicated to improving lives and building a stronger community. We focus on critical issues such as food security, homelessness, housing, mental health, addiction, children and youth support. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to community, we strive to create vibrant, caring communities where everyone can thrive.


- 30 - 


For more information, please contact:

Tanya Noyes

Data & Communications Coordinator 

613-342-8889 ext. 30

tanya.noyes@uwlg.org


By Tanya Noyes July 16, 2026
United Way Leeds & Grenville remains committed to celebrating outstanding older adults, with the inaugural Top 7 Over 70™ Awards now planned for 2027.
By Tanya Noyes July 8, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Local NHL Alumni to Join Gord Brown Memorial Golf Tournament LEEDS & GRENVILLE, ON –United Way Leeds & Grenville (UWLG) and the Brown family are excited to announce that NHL alumni Chris Neil and Alyn McCauley will participate in the 6th Annual Gord Brown Memorial Golf Tournament on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Smugglers Glen Golf Course. “We are thrilled to welcome NHL Alumni Chris Neil and Alyn McCauley to this year’s event,” said Jeff Brown, Honorary Chair and Gord’s brother. “Their participation brings an added level of excitement and creates a truly memorable experience for everyone involved.” While the tournament is currently sold out, a waitlist is available and limited sponsorship opportunities remain, including access to the VIP Reception with NHL Alumni and golf spots. For more information, visit www.uwlg.org or contact Melissa Hindman. Chris Neil, one of the most recognizable players in Ottawa Senators history, played his entire 17-year NHL career with the organization, appearing in 1,026 games. He now serves as the Senators’ Vice President of Business and Community Development. Alyn McCauley, born in Brockville and raised in Gananoque, enjoyed a 10-year NHL career with the Toronto Maple Leafs, San Jose Sharks, and Los Angeles Kings. A former Ottawa 67’s star and two-time World Junior gold medalist, McCauley remains actively involved in hockey operations today. “On behalf of United Way Leeds & Grenville, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our sponsors, especially Canarm Ltd. and Shorelines Casino, for their generous support,” said Ian McFall, Board Chairperson, United Way Leeds & Grenville. “We also thank the Brown family and the Winter Classic Committee for helping recruit these talented professionals.” Now in its sixth year, the tournament honours the legacy of the late Gord Brown, former Member of Parliament for Leeds–Grenville–Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes. The event brings together golfers, community leaders, and supporters to continue Gord’s legacy of giving back. The Brown family is proud that more than $1 million raised in his name to date and the tournament proceeds support United Way Leeds & Grenville initiatives addressing housing and homelessness, food insecurity, mental health and addictions, and programs for children and youth throughout the region. – 30 – About United Way Leeds & Grenville: United Way Leeds & Grenville is dedicated to improving lives and building a stronger community. We focus on critical issues such as food security, homelessness, housing, mental health, addictions, and supports for children and youth. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to community, we strive to create vibrant, caring communities where everyone can thrive. Media Contact: Melissa Hindman Director of Resource Development United Way Leeds & Grenville 613-342-8889 ext. 26  melissa.hindman@uwlg.org
More Posts