Heart-Healthy ‘Fun’raisers
Colin Zappia (left) with Mike George, owner of Aurelius Fine Oils
Ottawa, ON – Each February during Heart Month, Canadians remember loved ones they’ve lost to heart disease; strive to improve their own cardiac health; and support research and treatment facilities. Over the years, Colin Zappia has incorporated his love of hockey into multiple, creative fundraisers for the University of Ottawa Heart Institute Foundation. This year, he has launched a tasty new project.
“I've partnered with a local business, Aurelius Fine Oils, and will donate $2.50 for each bottle of Early Harvest extra virgin olive oil sold during the month of February. Aurelius owner Mike George is donating 15% of all sales of that oil to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute Foundation as well. Their website address is https://aureliusfineoils.com/.”
Colin got the idea after visiting the store and meeting the owner. “He told me about his fundraiser, and I said I'd jump on board to boost the amount of money going to the Heart Institute Foundation. The olive oil is heart healthy, so it was a natural fit! It's a win-win—this helps get some attention for a local business selling great products and helps to bring more money into the Foundation.”
As a Director on the Foundation’s Board, Colin invites people to consider various ways to make a difference. “There are tons of other fundraisers and events over the course of the month and donations will all be matched by some local, generous corporate partners.” Direct donations can be made online at Februaryisheartmonth.ca
As well, the third annual Wilbert Keon Memorial Golf Tournament will take place on July 15 at the Royal Ottawa Golf Club. As one of the organizers, Colin is pleased to report that “last year's event was a huge success as we raised just over $220,000! We're aiming to increase that total this year and have been working on this event for months now. Foursomes are almost sold out and we've acquired a number of new partners.”
The Ottawa Pickleball Classic—an event Colin founded last year—will have a new look and feel for 2024. “We've moved to a larger venue and will be hosting our participants on May 5 for a Cinco de Mayo fiesta! Lots of great things are being planned to make our 'fun'raiser the biggest and best charity pickleball tournament. Players will be asked to fundraise and prizes will be awarded to those who raise the most money among other prize categories. While there is no actual winner for the day's play, the big winner will be the Heart Institute Foundation as we hope to raise much more than the $30,500 presented last year.”
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Sutton Group - Ottawa Realty:
Colin Zappia
613-868-3311
czappia@sutton.com
Sutton Group Realty Services Ltd.:
Maria Castro
604-691-1689
stories@suttonspirit.com