JASON SETNYK
The Riders 4 Veterans raised $5,429 to support homeless veterans at a packed spaghetti fundraiser at the Army, Navy and Air Force Club in Cornwall. “This was our first event of this size, and we couldn’t be happier with the turnout,” said Mike Berthiaume, President and Founder of Riders 4 Veterans. “We sold 250 tickets, served 214 people, and heard nothing but positive feedback.”
The event featured live music from Larry and the Sidekicks, a silent auction, door prizes, and a 50/50 draw. Over $4,000 in prizes were donated by local businesses. Two unexpected highlights were $500 donations from both the Army, Navy and Air Force Club (presented by President Norm Bourgon) and the Bonville Lions Club (presented by Vice President Larry Granger).
Founded in September 2022 by Mike Berthiaume and his wife, Wanda Duffy-Berthiaume, Riders 4 Veterans is dedicated to helping those who served and now face homelessness. The group directs its fundraising efforts toward Veterans’ House Canada in Ottawa, ensuring that every contribution provides real, tangible support.
“We don’t take a penny for ourselves,” he explained. “Everything goes to Veterans’ House Canada. We even have a key to the building and a personal connection to the people we help.”
The Riders 4 Veterans also raise funds in the warmer months through coin drives outside local grocery stores. According to Berthiaume, the group typically brings in $1,500 to $1,800 during a three-hour shift, with volunteers holding helmets for donations. Berthiaume hopes the success of the dinner inspires future events. “The support we received means the world to us-and to the veterans we serve. We’re just getting started.”
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