Charitable organizations play a pivotal role in addressing various social, economic, and environmental issues within our communities. While there are countless charities and non-profits operating on both national and international levels, local charitable organizations hold a special place in our hearts and communities. For more than 30 years, the Wise Guys Charity Fund, through the exemplary dedication of its volunteers, has worked tirelessly to ensure its efforts and contributions go directly into the neighbourhoods of Niagara.
The Wise Guys Charity Fund had humble beginnings, driven by a straightforward goal: to enhance the quality of life in the Niagara Region. Initially, they focused their efforts on raising funds for the YMCA, coined as the Y’s Guys, which is where the name Wise Guys Charity Fund was derived. As they delved deeper into their philanthropic journey, they realized that the needs of their community extended far beyond a single organization. There were countless other deserving causes and individuals in Niagara who required support. With this revelation, they questioned, "Why limit our efforts when we have the capacity to do so much more?" This marked a transformative shift in strategy.
The overall goals shifted towards raising funds for a myriad of worthy causes, particularly those that often remained in the shadows, lacking the awareness they needed. The vision evolved into a commitment to effect as much positive change as possible, touching the lives of those who needed it most.
What started as a modest act of assistance soon grew into a remarkable legacy. Over the years, extended financial support was provided to a diverse array of organizations, embarking on a series of extraordinary journeys, and championing inspiring projects along the way. The organization has stood by women's shelters, guided mentorship programs, bolstered advocacy centers, and lent strength to numerous other endeavours that championed causes close to their hearts. Throughout this transformative journey, the unwavering support of the Niagara community has been the most gratifying aspect—witnessing the bonds of a community growing stronger and its members looking out for one another.
The Wise Guys Charity Fund is led strategically by its Board of Directors and has three primary committees that focus on their own unique signature events, fundraising goals, and community outreach. Wise Guys, Wise Girls, and Wise Kids all support the Wise Guys Charity Fund and provide community members with several opportunities to apply their efforts in an area that means the most to them.
Signature events like the Wise Guys Annual Golf Tournament and Dinner Auction, the Wise Girls Annual Tee Party, and the Wise Guys Annual Roast, are the predominant method of fundraising. This year’s roast welcomes Ted Hoxie, Retired CEO of Beattie’s, to take the hot seat in support of The Wise Guys Charity Fund. With a goal to do its part in helping surpass last year’s total of $360,000 raised, Ted and his entire family are on board to do what they can to raise awareness and inspire others to do the same.
“The Hoxie family believes in giving back to the community and Wise Guys Charity Fund is a great local organization – they support so many people and causes all over Niagara.” Says Ted, speaking on behalf of himself and his family who have been heavily involved in the planning and success of the roast.
In addition to volunteering time, sponsorships to help raise money and support fundraising events are also key to the success of the organization. Jack Nash Fine Clothiers has been a committed sponsor for several years, often donating high-quality men’s clothing to more than 400 golfers each year at the annual golf tournament as well as suits and outfits to various auction events.
In speaking with Dave Nash, President of Jack Nash Fine Clothiers, about why his organization chooses to support the Wise Guys Charity Fund, he says “Our involvement with Wise Guys Charity Fund is an easy decision, knowing the direct impact the organization has on the community. Operated solely through volunteers, many of whom are fellow business owners deeply committed to community service, we take pride in dedicating our own time along with donations to support this cause regularly.”
The Benefits of Supporting a Local Charity
In this extremely interconnected world, there are countless charities in need of support. It's essential to remember our local organizations' unique and vital role in our communities and the distinct advantages that make them the lifeblood of our neighbourhoods.
Strong Connections: Local organizations are typically deeply rooted in the community they serve. They often consist of dedicated volunteers who live in the same area, understand its unique challenges, and are passionate about making a difference. Supporting these organizations means investing in your own community and strengthening the bonds that tie people together. When you contribute to local charities, you are directly impacting your neighbours, friends, and fellow residents.
Tailored Solutions: The local involvement allows for a more intimate understanding of the specific needs of their communities, meaning they are well-positioned to develop tailored solutions that address local challenges effectively. This localized knowledge fuels more strategic decisions and ensures that your donations are used efficiently to address the issues that matter most in your area.
Direct Results: Whether it's providing food to a hungry family, shelter for the homeless, or educational resources for underprivileged children, you can witness the transformation within your community firsthand. This direct connection between your support and positive change is immensely gratifying and motivates continued involvement.
Strong Social Fabric: When individuals and businesses support local charities, they inspire others to do the same. This ripple effect creates a stronger, more compassionate community where people actively contribute to the well-being of their fellow residents. It is this sense of unity that undeniably leads to improved social cohesion, reduced crime rates, and a more vibrant local culture.
Brandon Currie, Financial Advisor with C.R. Smith Financial, has been a lead volunteer and organizing committee member for the Wise Guys Annual Roast since its inception. When discussing why he personally supports the charity, Brandon concludes “Supporting local charitable organizations is not just a philanthropic gesture; it's an investment in the well-being and vibrancy of your own community.”
Attention to Neglected Issues: In some cases, hyper-local issues may not receive sufficient attention from larger, national organizations and The Wise Guys Charity Fund, through its transparent Grant Application & Selection Program, aims to fill this gap, focusing on pressing issues that might otherwise go unaddressed. Each year the charity accepts submissions from other organizations that outline why they are seeking funds and how they plan to deploy those funds. Submissions are accepted until October 1st of each year and after all submissions are received the grant committee reviews each one carefully and awards the funds based upon all the information provided.
Accountability and Transparency: Close community ties provide healthy motivation for forward communication, often making information accessible by publishing how funds are dispersed. The Wise Guys Charity Fund publishes the grant recipients on their website each year, this accountability fosters trust and encourages continued support from the community.
Driven by dedicated individuals who understand the local needs of Niagara, the Wise Guys Charity Fund offers tailored solutions, creates immediate impact, and strengthens the social fabric of our region. By supporting them, you become an integral part of positive change, promoting community growth and unity. Doug Smith, Chair of the Wise Guys Charity Fund, expresses how proud he is how Niagara continues to come together in such a big way, carrying on the legacy his father inspired and led for so many years. He said “The Wise Guys Charity Fund operates as a 100% volunteer-driven organization, supported by a dedicated group of community leaders who generously contribute their time, resources, and talents each year. These contributions enable us to raise crucial funds, which are subsequently reinvested into our community to support worthy causes.”
When discussing looking towards the future of the organization, Doug replied “Niagara is a remarkable place to reside, and we firmly believe that our community will continue to uphold the enduring legacy of The Wise Guys Charity Fund for decades to come. At present, I am fully committed to this cause and am fortunate to be surrounded by an exceptional group of individuals who share our vision and are equally determined to enhance the quality of life in Niagara. As we move forward, it is imperative that we continue to engage and welcome the next generation of volunteers into our fold, with the hope that they will carry forward the same passion and dedication that defines our current core team.”
No matter the type of contribution you would like to make, when seeking to make a difference, consider directing your charitable efforts towards transparent, local organizations like the Wise Guys Charity Fund, and witness the benefits as they ripple throughout our Niagara neighbourhoods and communities.
In his closing remarks, Doug expressed, "We take great pride in our achievement of surpassing the $5 million milestone in funds raised and reinvested into Niagara. Looking ahead, we are resolute in our goal to raise another $5 million and beyond, further fortifying our commitment to the betterment of our community."
In his closing remarks, Doug expressed, "We take great pride in our achievement of surpassing the $5 million milestone in funds raised and reinvested into Niagara. Looking ahead, we are resolute in our goal to raise another $5 million and beyond, further fortifying our commitment to the betterment of our community."