A tragedy that shook the Carman community in 2024 has sparked a lasting legacy of healing and education.
Carman Wellness Connections Inc. (CWC) has officially established a $10,000 endowment fund with the Carman Area Foundation to support domestic violence awareness, prevention and community wellness initiatives. The donation was made possible through proceeds from the Elegant Ladies Gala, held May 10, and personal contributions that followed.
The fund was formally presented at CWC’s annual general meeting, held June 11 at Kings Park, where approximately 150 people gathered to reflect on the past year and look to the future.
Lisa Lehmann, coordinator for CWC, said the Clearwater Memorial Playground Project was initially launched to revitalize a local playground while honouring lives lost in February 2024. But as planning progressed, the need to raise awareness and promote education around domestic violence became a clear priority for organizers.
“The tragedy deeply impacted our community,” Lehmann said. “In the wake of that loss, local organizations united to honour those affected and begin healing together.”
The May gala, co-hosted by Boyne River Keepers, featured a fashion show and a guest speaker from Genesis House, a local women’s shelter. Proceeds from the evening, along with ongoing donations in the weeks that followed, helped CWC reach its $10,000 goal to launch the endowment.
Lehmann said the fund will serve as a permanent source of annual revenue for programs that support mental health, housing, food security and emotional resilience. It will also provide a platform for new initiatives, including potential youth and adult mental health collaborations and expansion of the WRAP project.
“This fund allows us to support awareness campaigns, education programs, and collaborative work that addresses the root causes of domestic violence,” she said. “It’s about building long-term solutions while also recognizing and building on the strengths we already have.”
Lehmann praised Boyne River Keepers for their role in helping to establish the fund, noting their determination and shared commitment to lasting change.
Community members and businesses are encouraged to support the fund through financial donations or by volunteering their time and ideas. Anyone interested in getting involved can contact CWC at carmanwellnessconnections@gmail.com.
As the fund begins generating revenue in partnership with the Carman Area Foundation, Lehmann said allocations will be guided by strategic planning and annual action plans focused on prevention and community wellness.
“Wellness and nature go hand-in-hand,” she said. “Creating safe, natural spaces like playgrounds and river trails supports mental health, community connection, and offers a healthy environment for healing and growth.”3
The initiative has already received strong community support. Since receiving provincial funding and hiring staff, CWC has seen rising engagement and momentum.
