Students Raise $1,600 for Boreal Healthcare Foundation Through Bake Sale

Students at Saskatchewan Polytechnic transformed a routine class assignment into a successful community fundraiser, raising a total of $1,600 for the Boreal Healthcare Foundation. The event, titled “Bake for a Cause,” took place on campus on September 27, 2023, and was organized by students in the Business Management program as part of a project management course.

Project Manager Vikas Singh explained that the idea for the bake sale was conceived early in the semester, with planning beginning in September and culminating in the event three months later. “We had to raise at least $1,000 for any foundation, and we chose to donate to the Boreal Healthcare Foundation,” Singh said. The initiative required extensive planning, including securing permissions, organizing sponsors, and coordinating the booth setup.

Singh noted that two groups collaborated on the project, resulting in an unexpected turnout from the staff. “Around 90 percent of staff came to us and bought something, often donating double the purchase amount,” he added.

Educational Experience and Community Impact

Instructor Nicole Galbraith emphasized the educational value of the fundraiser, stating that it provided students with hands-on experience in project management. “The fundraiser is designed to develop a project through the five process groups of project management,” she explained. “Instead of retaining profits, the students donated all proceeds to a charity in Prince Albert, giving back to the community.”

Galbraith praised the professionalism exhibited by the students, many of whom are international and new to Canada. She expressed pride in seeing them successfully execute the project and engage with external stakeholders.

Attending the event was Andy Cohen, donor engagement and communications representative for the Boreal Healthcare Foundation. He highlighted the significance of community support for ongoing healthcare initiatives in Prince Albert. “The Boreal Healthcare Foundation has been investing in local healthcare for the last 40 years,” Cohen said. “Every little bit helps, and this bake sale raises awareness about our campaigns.”

Cohen pointed out that fundraisers like this are vital as the region prepares for expanded healthcare services, including the introduction of the first MRI north of Saskatoon. “Over 150,000 people depend on this hospital,” he said. “Fundraisers get us closer to the specialized equipment we need.”

A Meaningful Experience for Students

As the sale concluded, Singh reflected on the experience. “This is our first time in Canada, and this was a new experience for us. We haven’t done anything like this back in India,” he noted. “It was an amazing experience, and we learned so much from organizing this event.”

The successful bake sale not only achieved its fundraising goals but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration among students, staff, and local healthcare advocates. The event exemplified the positive impact that academic projects can have when they engage with and support local causes.