Posts Tagged ‘Gala in the Woods’

• Gala in the Woods 2025

  Date: 2025.09.23 | Category: Articles, Living Green | Response: 0

  For the past 16 years, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to serve on the board of Living Green Barrie. Being part of this organization has been a dream come true, allowing me to combine my love for the environment with the joy of working alongside some truly amazing people. The friendships and memories I’ve made with the board members, staff, and volunteers are truly priceless.

  Over the years, we’ve been blessed with some fantastic staff members, including Mike, Jenna, Sarah, Andee, Kerry, and Olha. Each of them has brought something unique to the table and has helped shape Living Green Barrie into the success it is today.

  One of my absolute favourite things about being on the board is our annual Gala in the Woods, which just took place on September 20th. This event is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a magical evening under the stars at Springwater Provincial Park. The pavilion is transformed into an enchanting space with round tables, comfortable chairs, and elegant tablecloths. Andee Pelan, our Executive Director, has an incredible eye for detail and always creates a stunning atmosphere with her carefully planned decorations and soft lighting.

  As the sun set, we gathered around two cozy fire pits to keep warm. Dinner was prepared by Chef Melanie of Orillia’s Eclectic Cafe, a Chopped Canada winner. The food was absolutely delicious, and I was thrilled to learn that it was all sourced locally from the Barrie and Orillia area. It’s always a treat to support local businesses while enjoying a fantastic meal.

  One of the most exciting parts of this year’s gala was the Ford F150 Lightning provided by our sponsor Bayfield Ford. This electric truck powered all the lights outside the pavilion, adding an eco-friendly touch to the event. It was a great reminder of how we can incorporate sustainability into every aspect of our lives.

  Gala in the Woods is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of our community’s commitment to environmental sustainability. To date, we have planted 7,499 trees in Barrie, and by 2026, we aim to plant our 10,000th tree. Events like the Gala in the Woods are crucial in funding these initiatives and bringing our community together for a great cause.

  I can’t wait for the 4th Gala in the Woods, with tickets scheduled to go on sale in August 2026. If you’ve never been, you’re in for a treat! It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

  A huge thank you to our sponsors for making this year’s Gala in the Woods a success: Raymond James Executive Wealth Advisors, Meridian Credit Union, Doane Grant Thornton, Busch Systems, Bayfield Ford, Barriston Law, TD Northern Shores Wealth Management, Georgian Communities, Mcan Financial, Barrie Hill Farms, Woodslake Home Care, and the South Simcoe Rebel Rollers.