The River 50/50 - a new wave of hope in Leeds & Grenville

Tanya Noyes • April 17, 2025

Introducing The River 50/50

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The River 50/50: A New Wave of Hope in Leeds & Grenville


April 17, 2025 – United Way Leeds & Grenville, in partnership with Homelife/DLK, is proud to announce the official launch of The River 50/50—a dynamic new fundraiser designed to bring the community together and raise vital funds for local charities across L&G. Kicking off sales on April 24, 2025, at the Prescott Trade Show (Homelife booth). The grand prize-winning ticket will be drawn live on stage during the 1000 Islands Regatta, just before the headlining "Shania Twin" concert on Saturday, June 28th at 9:00 PM. Proceeds from The River 50/50 will go directly to United Way-funded programs supporting local individuals, families and supporting agencies in Leeds & Grenville. Every ticket sold helps strengthen our region.


“This fundraiser is truly about community,” says Hailie Jack, Executive Director of UWLG. “From small towns to big hearts, the River 50/50 is a celebration of what we can do when we come together for a cause bigger than ourselves.”


Get Involved:

• Buy Your Tickets Online: Scan the QR code on posters at participating businesses or visit our website at www.theriver5050.ca and/or our Facebook event page “The River 50/50”.

• Visit Our Pop-Up Ticket Booths: Live ticket sales will happen across the region at businesses like Home Hardware, Canadian Tire, Food Basics, The Butcher Shop, and more!

• Media, Community and Partner “The River 50/50 Launch” April 22nd at 9AM at Homelife DLK Brockville office.


“Homelife/DLK is proud and honored to partner with the United Way Leeds & Grenville for this fantastic fundraiser.” says Jeff Liston, Broker with Homelife DLK. “Supporting our local community is an integral part of our Mission Statement here at Homelife, we always strive to serve and support the community that serves and supports us as a local business. The Homelife Family are looking forward to making this a successful and fun campaign. Join us as we ride the wave of generosity and make 2025 the Year of HOPE. Together, we can create lasting impact—and maybe even make one lucky winner’s year!” Shares Co-Owner, Angie Steele. 

River 50/50 Raises Thousands for Local Community Programs

By 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.

United Way Leeds & Grenville Postpones Inaugural Top 7 Over 70™ Awards to 2027

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.

Local NHL Alumni to Join Gord Brown Memorial Golf Tournament

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
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