AUNDECK OMNI KANING—Manitoulin Streams Improvement Association (MSIA) is an environmental non-profit that has garnered international awards and renown for its innovative approach to revitalizing Manitoulin’s many streams and lakes. Each year, MSIA holds a Jacket and Jeans fundraising dinner and auction that helps raise funds to further the organization’s groundbreaking work.
“Our goal for this year’s Jacket and Jeans fundraiser dinner and auction was to have 150 people in attendance,” shared MSIA environmental technologist Liam Campbell. “We exceeded that goal with just under 180 people in the room and we are grateful for everyone that was able to attend and support our organization. All funds raised at this event stay right here on Manitoulin and go directly back into the restoration of our waterways and the environmental education of our youth.”
“What a night!” reads the statement from the board of directors. “Our 2025 Jackets and Jeans fundraiser dinner and auction was an absolute hit, a resounding success filled with good food, great company, and the unmistakable hum of community spirit. This year brought with it a few unknowns, as we moved to a brand-new venue, but thanks to the tireless efforts of our staff and the many incredible volunteers who stepped up to help, the evening flowed smoother than a well-restored stream.”
“We’d like to extend our deepest thanks to Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation for welcoming us into their community and allowing us to host this event on their land and in their beautiful community complex,” continues the statement. “It was an honour, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen our relationship through future restoration projects and shared stewardship goals.”
MSIA called for a “big round of applause” for caterer Pam Roy and her team, who catered the evening and left no plate unpolished. The meal was outstanding and judging by the chorus of compliments we heard by night’s end, we weren’t the only ones who thought so.”
This year, instead of naming a single Volunteer of the Year, MSIA invited all of the chiefs, mayors, and reeves from across Manitoulin to join them in a shared meal as a symbolic gesture of unity. “Because when it comes to protecting and restoring the natural beauty of this island, we believe the strongest current is the one we swim together,” said Mr. Campbell. “We are constantly humbled by the generosity and support shown by our community. Your continued belief in our work is not only appreciated, it’s what fuels our efforts and reminds us that true environmental stewardship is alive and well on Manitoulin. To everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, or simply cheered us on, thank you. Let’s keep this momentum flowing.”
To donate, please visit: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/ML5VF5388F1QW/checkout/X4XU35OAUP67LVOKX2KIOLO3?src=webqr
