Omemee Swans hoping to flock to more communities in Kawartha Lakes

They say birds of a feather are flocking together and if the growth and success of the new Omemee Swans Club is any indication, more volunteer efforts around town are likely to flee while trying to settle in Lindsay and Pontypool/Bethany.

The Omemee branch of the service club was formed in the summer of 2021 along with more than 20 clubs across the province including clubs in Peterborough, Cannington and Norwood with more than 300 members. Local membership has grown from four to 16 ladies from all backgrounds, says Omemee Swans President Jillian Cockerell, noting that everyone is welcome.

“We focus on friendship,” said Cockerell of the Omemee group, which meets twice a month, with one meeting generally covering the business of volunteering and community fundraising, while the other involves a group activity.

“We try to keep it fun,” she added.

President and co-founder of the Omemee Chapter, Cockerell, who has lived in Kawartha Lakes for more than 30 years, saw the new volunteer organization as an opportunity to contribute to the community while maintaining a sense of autonomy.

The Omemee Swans have an ongoing partnership with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 497 in Omemee which allows them use of the Legion Kitchen and Function Room where they host craft sales and catering events for fundraisers.

“All of our money goes back into the community,” Cockerell said, adding that owning assets and no management fees as a club means any funds raised can go back into the community.

“Where we see a need, we try to support him locally,” said Cockerell.

According to the Omemee Swans’ 2022 Annual Report for their first full year of service, a total of $7,861 was donated to the community, including $2,360 towards a special bench at Omemee Beach Park, $1,920 towards a defibrillator and a cabinet for the Legion , $600 to Women’s Resources Lindsay, and $400 each to Lindsay Special Olympics, Boys and Girls Clubs of Kawartha Lakes, and Kawartha Lakes Animal Welfare Society.

“It’s great to see your group filling some of the volunteering gaps in our community since COVID. You guys are really making a difference out there,” Deputy Mayor Tracy Richardson told Cockerell after a recent presentation to the council asking for support for expansion into other areas of Kawartha Lakes.

“This group is a phenomenal group,” added Ward 6 Coun. Ron Ashmore, who states that he hopes the club will spread across town.

“The thousands of hours of volunteer work this group puts in is just amazing.”

As the Swans look to expand into Lindsay and Bethany/Pontypool, Cockerell notes that full optional insurance is provided and the sponsoring Omemee Club provides full training and guidance for new chapters brought on board.

A informational session for those interested in starting a swan club in Lindsay will be held on Thursday, February 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Lindsay Branch of the City of Kawartha Lakes Public Library.

A second information session is planned at a later date at the Pontypool Community Center.

The Swans will also be hosting a Lady and the Tramp Pasta Dinner at the Omemee Legion on February 17 from 5:30-7:30 p.m., as well as a craft and plant sale, also at the Legion, on April 1.

Stay tuned to Facebook or email for more information about the Swans and upcoming events [email protected].

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