At McKenzie Lake Lawyers, we have a long tradition of giving back to the communities we work and live in. We encourage our lawyers and staff to get involved with organizations in and outside of the office.
In 2019, McKenzie Lake proudly sponsored the remodel of the Ronald McDonald Family Room at the Children’s Hospital in London, originally opened in 2012. By the end of 2018, this space had already served over 239,496 visitors, offering a much-needed refuge for families during challenging times. With such a high volume of visitors and constant use, a refresh was much needed to continue providing a welcoming and comfortable space for families.
Our involvement in this remodel and the organization deepened our commitment to supporting our community, allowing us to provide a “home-away-from-home” for families focused on their children’s recovery. This meaningful connection continues to inspire us and strengthen our bond with the community. In fact, since 2019, a team of McKenzie Lake volunteers has visited the House monthly, which equates to over 70 visits to prepare meals for the families staying there.
As of September 2024, the number of visitors to the Ronald McDonald House in London, Ontario has grown to 296,359. Below, you’ll find a video showcasing the refreshed Family Room and the inspiring “Show Your Stripes” campaign.
Other firm-wide sponsorships have included the following:
- Brain Injury Association of London Region
- Canvas of Life: Multi-Organ Transplant Program London Health Sciences Center
- Joan’s Place – Youth Opportunities
- Red Shoe Society
- Robarts Concussion Research
- Ronald McDonald House
- SARI Therapeutic Riding
- St. Joseph’s Health Care London – Tribute Dinner
- Operation Walk Canada
HOW WE GAVE BACK!
Ronald McDonald House Volunteering: September 12th, 2024
Members of our McKenzie Lake team had a wonderful time volunteering at Ronald McDonald House! These talented chefs made chicken bruschetta, pasta with a rose sauce, caesar salad, and homemade chocolate chip cookies.
Pictured from left to right: Meagan MacArthur, Gigi Alghosein and Manahil Jawad.
Not pictured: Martha Edwards
Guelph Chamber of Commerce Cup Golf Tournament: September 12th, 2024
Yesterday on Thursday, September 12th, McKenzie Lake Lawyers Kayla Gordon, Alex Verrilli, and Adelaide Earl-Kinley participated in the Guelph Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber Cup Golf Tournament.
Guelph Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, member driven business association that creates and delivers programs and opportunities for businesses to be their best through networking opportunities and programming.
Kidsport London Golf Tournament: August 14th, 2024
McKenzie Lake was pleased to support and participate in the 9th annual KidSport London Golf Tournament presented by M&T Printing Group. It was a great day for golf at the Oaks Golf course on the 14th. The KidSport event and London cause has already surpassed last year’s total of over 500 families assisted in 2024. In photo from left to right lawyers: Nathan Hwee, Lauren Sigouin, Ray Kanani and Erin Fisher.
7th Annual Get Your Kick On Event for the Children’s Health Foundation: June 19th, 2024
It was another successful night for our 7th Annual Get Your Kick On Event, which raises funds for Children’s Health Foundation. The rain didn’t stop this group of over 100 attendees at East Park. Over the years this event has helped raise funds for crucial medical devices and programs at Children’s Hospital. Thank you to all our amazing sponsors and attendees coming out to support this fun event and Children’s Health! A special thanks to McKenzie Lake Lawyer Louis Delsignore who is one of the organizing committee members.
Capstone Charity Golf Tournament: June 18th, 2024
Our team had a blast at yesterday’s Capstone Charity Golf Tournament, swinging clubs for a cause! Proudly supporting the Royal LePage Shelter and Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis. From left to right: Jeff Franchi, Instore Products, Mike Henley, McKenzie Lake, Mike McKinnon, Ostic Insurance Brokers and Mike McCluskey McKenzie Lake. Despite the sizzling heat, everyone had a fantastic time. Every summer, the Capstone team comes together with local businesses and community members to tee off and raise funds for the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation & Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis.
Guelph Wish Fund Golf Tournament: June 14th, 2024
On Friday, June 14th, we were proud to sponsor and attend Guelph Wish Fund for Children’s June Golf Tournament. This dedicated organization is committed to granting the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses. The proceeds from this year’s auction and tournament contributed to making this possible. In photo from left to right: Jake Russell and lawyers Catherine Shearer, Kayla Gordon and Mike McCluskey
Mike’s Superhero Walk for Brain Injury Awareness: May 25th, 2024
The rain and thunder prevented the Marvellous McKenzie Lakers and other teams from making Mike’s Superhero Walk happen Saturday at Springbank Gardens, but a big congratulations to all the groups participating that helped raise $6,720.00 for the London Brain Injury Association.
Community Fridge Cooking Evening: April 17th, 2024
Our volunteer team had a fun time preparing dinners for Community Fridge London this week. They prepared beef stir fry, rice and Rice Krispy treats for dessert. Everything was cooked, cooled, bagged, ingredients labelled and placed in the community fridge for distribution. The Community Fridge London is open 24/7 and is located at St. John the Divine Church on Baseline Road West. Volunteers included from left to right: Michele Monteith, Sharon Trimble, Jenna Holita, Gigi Alghosein and Martha Edwards. Laurie Hause in photo with Martha Edwards.
Guelph Wish Fund’s Golf Tournament, Online Auction, and 40th Anniversary Gala: April 13th, 2024
On April 13th, 2024 our McKenzie Lake team had a wonderful Saturday night at the 40th anniversary gala event in support of Guelph Wish Fund for Children.
Shown here from left to right are lawyers: Alex Verrilli, Kayla Gordon, Catherine Shearer, Adelaide Earl-Kinsley and guest Megan Smithers.
Holiday Food Drive for London’s Community Fridge: December 21st, 2023
At McKenzie Lake, we’re spreading holiday cheer with more than just legal expertise! Our team is thrilled to contribute non-perishable food items to London’s Community Fridge, ensuring that everyone in our community has access to food this season. In addition to this round of donations, we have also contributed a monetary donation of $3400 to support the Community Fridge. We’re happy to make this holiday season a time of giving and gratitude.
Attending from McKenzie Lake include Kayla Gordon, Nicole Kucherenko, and Alex Verrilli, joined by our colleagues from SV Law.
Trivia Fundraiser for the United Way: November 5th, 2023
On November 5th, McKenzie Lake’s Guelph Associates attended a trivia fundraiser in support of United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin at Fixed Gear Brewing. They took home second place and learned much about the United Way’s From Poverty to Possibility campaign. It was a wonderful evening in support of the Guelph community.
Pictured from left to right: Christina Noble, Kim Jones, Michelle Weaver, Jennifer Harding, Martha Edwards, and Gigi Alghosein.
United Way StairClimb: November 2nd, 2023
Our McKenzie Lake team had a fantastic time stepping it up at The United Way StairClimb. On November 2nd, 2023, they participated in this lively fundraising event, walking or wheeling inside while moving and grooving to a disco beat at London’s largest team-building event for fun and a good cause. Visit the United Way’s website to support our neighbours in need.
Pictured from left to right: Alex Verrilli, Catherine Shearer, Kayla Gordon, and Nicole Kucherenko
Golf Tournament in Support of the Guelph Chamber of Commerce: September 7th, 2023
This month, lawyers Alex Verrilli, Catherine Shearer, Kayla Gordon, and Nicole Kucherenko attended the Guelph Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament. It was a beautiful day at the Victoria Park Valley Golf Club and the whole team had a wonderful time. Guelph Chamber is a non-profit, member-driven business association that creates and delivers programs and opportunities to support businesses. McKenzie Lake’s very own Catherine Shearer is also on the Board for Guelph Chamber.
Pictured from left to right: Laura Bees, Jessica Bell, Ashley Caldwell, Nicole Willert, Gigi Alghosein & Allison Langridge (not pictured).
Ronald McDonald House Dinner Volunteering: August 21st, 2023
Our team had a wonderful time preparing dinner and volunteering at Ronald McDonald House. They prepared chicken and veggie kabobs with roasted potatoes and had an ice cream bar for dessert.
Pictured from left to right: Guelph Lawyers Nicole Kucherenko, Kayla Gordon and Catherine Shearer and lawyers Maddison Watson and Rachel Andrews from Harris Law.
Summer Soirée for Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis: August 17th, 2023
Last night lawyers Catherine Shearer, Kayla Gordon and Nicole Kucherenko attended Royal LePage Royal City Realty’s Summer Soiree Soirée which was a garden-themed fundraiser with all proceeds going to the Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis. The event featured live music, games, appetizers, drinks and a silent and live auction.
Pictured from left to right: Nathan Hwee, Jonathan Bradford, Sam McColl, and Ray Kanani.
8th Annual KidSport London Golf Tournament: August 9th, 2023
Our team enjoyed a day of fun in the sun for KidSport’s 8th Annual London Golf Tournament. The day was complete with a shotgun start, an on-course lunch, putting contest, dinner, silent auction, and prize ceremony.
This charity tournament was established in 2014 to support local children in the community by raising funds to allow them to participate in sports. Each year they aim to raise as much money as possible to help get as many kids as possible involved in sports. It is their mission to ensure all kids are granted an equal opportunity to get involved.
Pictured: McKenzie Lake Team
Get Your Kick on For the Children’s Health Foundation: July 11th, 2023
Even though Mother Nature did not co-operate Tuesday evening, members from our Legal Eagles and Cup Hunters teams were ready to play footgolf. A great evening of fun, conversation, great food and prizes. This was the 6th Annual Get Your Kick On Event held at East Park in support of Children’s Health Foundation (@chfhope).
(Photo: The McKenzie Lake IT team was able to use the power of Photoshop to show what the background should have looked like for the event).
Pictured from left to right: Kyle Hampson, Nicole Kucherenko, and Mike Henley
Capstone Charity Golf Tournament: June 26th, 2023
On June 26th, lawyers Kyle Hampson, Nicole Kucherenko, and Mike Henley participated in a golf tournament hosted by Capstone Real Estate Professionals. The tournament benefitted two local organizations, the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation and Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis. Both foundations help women and children find safety from abuse and violence.
McKenzie Lake volunteers putting their baking skills to the test.
Ronald McDonald House Volunteer Baking: June 22nd, 2023
On Thursday, June 22nd our Guelph team had the pleasure of volunteering at Ronald McDonald House. The team put their baking skills to the test and made a scrumptious selection of muffins, brownies, and chocolate desserts.
Those who attended include Martha Edwards, Laura Muller, Danielle Giddy, Amy McEachern and Michelle Courchain.
Pictured from left to right: Kayla Gordon, Catherine Shearer, Nicole Kucherenko, and Alex Verrilli.
Guelph Wish Fund’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament: June 16th, 2023
McKenzie Lake’s Guelph team was honoured to take part in Guelph Wish Fund for Children’s 35th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. This event was held at Victoria Park East Golf Club, and the team enjoyed a fantastic day of golf in support of the Guelph Wish Fund — an organization dedicated to granting wishes for Guelph/Wellington children living with a significant illness, life-altering injury or rare and debilitating syndrome.
Photo of the McKenzie Lake team at Springbank Park.
Mike’s Superhero Walk: May 27th, 2023
On Saturday at Springbank Park, the Marvellous McKenzie Lakers took part in Mike’s 3k Superhero Walk for Brain Injury Awareness! The team enjoyed an active morning of fun and community spirit in support of the Brain Injury Association of London and Region. As of this week, the foundation has raised an impressive $7,250, very close to their goal of $10,000.
SARI Therapeutic Riding’s 2023 Fundraiser: Day at the Derby
The McKenzie Lake team was off to the races on May 6th, 2023 in support of SARI Therapeutic Riding’s annual Day at the Derby fundraising event.
Thank you to all the organizers and participants who coordinated the live music, southern-inspired menu, Kentucky Derby live-stream, and the delightful selection of cocktails from the host, Paradigm Distillery.
Pictured from left to right: Laura Bees, Hilary Jenkins, Ashley Caldwell, Louis DelSignore, Sarah Kirshin-Neilans, Mavis Butkus, Emily Assini and Jennifer Butkus.
Community Fridge London: April 26th, 2023
McKenzie Lake is proud to be a sponsor of London’s first Community Fridge Initiative.
Starting September 14th, the community fridge will be operational, located at St. John the Divine Parish 390 Baseline Road. The site will provide supplies 24/7, making it uniquely different from many food banks and cupboards that have food available, only during business hours. People are encouraged to take what they need, when they need it.
Food and dry goods are supplied by Londoners, businesses with excess, and by restaurants who have surplus after their day. The fridge is monitored daily by volunteers to ensure food is safe, and the area clean. The local health unit will be involved with us to ensure all health and safety standards are embraced.
Spinal Cord Injury Ontario Roll n Bowl 2023
The McKenzie Lake Pin Pals and Spare Pin Pals hit the lanes in London earlier this week in support of Spinal Cord Injury Ontario’s annual Roll n Bowl.
Thank you to all the organizers and participants who helped create a fun night of bowling to raise funds in support of people living with spinal cord injuries and their families in our community.
Stove to Freezer Night for Community Fridge London
Members of the firm spent an evening cooking and meal-prepping for Community Fridge London. On the menu were two big pots of chilli, one pot of vegetarian chilli and homemade oatmeal muffins.
The chilli and muffins were packaged, labelled and stored in Community Fridge London’s freezer for distribution by volunteers over the coming weeks. Community Fridge London is open 24/7 and is located at St. John the Divine Church.
Holiday Donations 2022
In the spirit of giving for the holidays, McKenzie Lake Lawyers have teamed up with local organizations to provide food, gifts, and other donations to those in need.
The London office ran a mitten and food drive through December in partnership with Community Fridge London, where they were able to provide non-perishable items, along with a gift certificate to purchase much-needed fresh produce. The Guelph office teamed up with Adopt-a-Family to provide gifts and other necessities for two local families who need support during the holiday season.
Ronald McDonald House Holiday Decorating
In 2019 McKenzie Lake sponsored the renovation of the RMHC Family Room at Children’s Hospital.
The Family Room is an extension of the services provided by Ronald McDonald House, providing a comfortable environment for families who are unable to leave the hospital, or who are not eligible to stay at Ronald McDonald House. The Family Room provides bedrooms for napping, showers for a much-needed refresh, and quiet space for respite. Snacks, coffee and laundry facilities are also available.
Members of McKenzie Lake recently joined in to help decorate the Christmas Tree and the Family Room, pictured from left to right: Jasmine Smith, Laura Bees, Nicole Willert and Lisa Leitch.
TD Stair Climb for United Way Elgin Middlesex
McKenzie Lake participated in the 25th annual TD Stair Climb for United Way Elgin Middlesex in support of neighbours in need.
A huge thank you to Christina Noble for helping organize Team McKenzie Lake and participating with fellow teammates Jennifer Harding, Michelle Weaver, Pia Sorri, Gigi Alghosein, and Danielle Sparks, who climbed for a great cause!
Community Fridge London
Grand opening of London’s first Community Fridge! McKenzie Lake is delighted to be a sponsor of this wonderful initiative.
Pictured at the ribbon cutting event are McKenzie Lake’s Managing Partner Mike Peerless, Committee Members Patti Lake and Kathleen Murphy along with many other volunteers who have made this initiative come to fruition.
Get Your Kick On 2022
We were proud to be the presenting sponsor for this year’s Get Your Kick On event in support of Children’s Hospital, held on June 22nd, at East Park Golf. The day was filled with fun, some friendly competition, and great food.
Thank you to all those that participated including our teams, Still Kick’n, Pleased to Cleat You, Weapons of Grass Destruction, and The Supreme Course!
McKenzie Lake Takes Home the Red Cape
During the month of May, the Marvellous McKenzie Lakers teamed up to fundraise for Mike’s Superhero Walk for Brain Injury Awareness. Through fundraising and the 3K Community Walk at Springbank Park on May 14th, team McKenzie Lake raised the most funds at $4,230.00, in support of the Brain Injury Association of London & Region.
Katharine Creighton and Sarah Kirshin-Neilans attended last week’s 2022 Brain Injury Conference and were presented with the coveted red cape.
Mike’s Superhero Walk for Brain Injury Awareness 2022
Throughout May 2022, the Marvellous McKenzie Lakers teamed up to fundraise for Mike’s Superhero Walk for Brain Injury Awareness.
Between fundraising and the 3K Community Walk at Springbank Park this past weekend, we are proud to share that the team won the coveted red cape for raising the most funds at $4,230.00, in support of the Brain Injury Association of London & Region.
SARI Bowling for Ponies 2022
We were thrilled to sponsor 15+ bowlers for SARI’s Bowling for Ponies 2022 event. The event held on April 3rd was a fun night for everyone involved with 92 bowlers and $36,000 raised for their therapeutic riding initiatives.
McKenzie Lake Holiday Care Initiatives
With a long history of giving back to the London community where we live and work, members of McKenzie Lake Lawyers are hard at work on our holiday care initiatives. Our lawyers and staff are helping collect toys, non-perishable food items and raising funds through 50/50 draws for the Business Cares Food Drive.
After hearing the call for help by the Salvation Army of London, as shown by CTV News London’s story on December 2nd, the Partners of McKenzie Lake Lawyers have donated $10,000.00 to the Salvation Army’s Christmas wish list.
Dinner Prep at Ronald McDonald House
It was great to be back at the Ronald McDonald House prepping some dinner meals, including a Greek Chicken Bake! The RMHC provides a place to stay for out-of-town families with seriously ill children, where they can stay for as long as they need – only 165 steps from Children’s Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre.
Get Your Kick On 2021
On Thursday July 29th, 2021, members of McKenzie Lake participated in the 4th Annual Get Your Kick On tournament. We were thrilled to be the presenting sponsor for this year’s event. Thank you to all those that participated including our Teams the Supreme Course and McKenzie Lakers.
This year the event raised $21,864, contributing to a lifetime total of $53,666! The funds raised provide much needed support to the Child Life Program at Children’s Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre.
Socktober 2020
In early November, McKenzie Lake Lawyers was happy to participate in the annual United Way Campaign. Our team participated in the Scotiabank StairClimb by climbing the stairs in our office building, walking around the block and doing jumping jacks to “step up” for United Way. We also held numerous 50/50 draws and Dress Down week to raise additional funds.
Our fundraising efforts have raised $1,941 to date. Proceeds go towards supporting local people and families in our London community.
United Way Fundraiser
In early November, McKenzie Lake Lawyers was happy to participate in the annual United Way Campaign. Our team participated in the Scotiabank StairClimb by climbing the stairs in our office building, walking around the block and doing jumping jacks to “step up” for United Way. We also held numerous 50/50 draws and Dress Down week to raise additional funds.
Our fundraising efforts have raised $1,941 to date. Proceeds go towards supporting local people and families in our London community.
Clothing Donations for ClothingWorks
For the second year, McKenzie Lake was happy to collect some clothing donations for ClothingWorks, a valued resource in the community that provides job seekers with high quality clothing and confidence to meet with prospective employers.
Hosted by Goodwill Industries, Ontario Great Lakes, Clothing Works is a charitable community program with a mission to promote economic independence of people through initiatives such as providing individuals with professional attire, a network of support and tools to foster achievement in work and life.
Children’s Health Foundation Golf Classic Sponsorship and Tournament
What a lovely day to participate in the 31st RBC Annual Children’s Health Foundation Golf Classic tournament! McKenzie Lake was honoured to be a Gold Sponsor of this exciting event held at the Sunningdale Golf and Country Club. With a long history of sponsoring and participating in this annual tournament, the circumstances this year weren’t going to stop us from being involved in our community. Although the overall event format was different from previous years, everyone had just as much fun!
Proceeds go towards the Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre, the Thames Valley Children’s Centre, and the Children’s Health Research Institute, with efforts to support children’s health in our region. #GolfClassicTournament #ChildrensHealthFoundation #ChildrensGolfClassic #McKenzieLake #ldnont
Get Your Kick On Foot Golf for Children’s Hospital
McKenzie Lake was pleased to be a Platinum level sponsor for the 2020 Get Your Kick On Foot Golf Tournament with proceeds supporting the Children’s Health Foundation and the Child Life Program. This year despite the new safe distancing requirements and changes, the event helped raise $13,839.00!
For more information about this event you can visit: https://childhealth.ca/events/get-your-kick-on/
SARI Therapeutic Riding
Personal Injury Partner Louis DelSignore and Class Action Lawyer Emily Assini are pictured here in front of the gorgeous Highland Green Stables, a neighborhood supporter of SARI’s Therapeutic Riding.
Earlier this year McKenzie Lake adopted Willow, a Belgian Quarter Horse through SARI’s Adopt-A-Pony program which helps support Willow and all she needs to bring happy times to those that interact with her.
Emily is President of SARI’s Board of Directors and both Emily and Louis are avid equestrians and supporters of SARI. Visit their site for more information on the riding program and information about their upcoming Day At the Derby fundraiser – www.sari.ca
CIBC Run For The Cure – McKenzie Lake Supports Amy’s Avengers
Congratulations to Team McKenzie Lake aka Amy’s Avengers and everyone who participated in Sunday’s CIBC Run For The Cure. The team surpassed our original goal of $3500.00 bringing us to $6,184.50!
We raised this money in support of one of our own, Amy Sauder and all those afflicted with breast cancer.
New Canvas of Life in Support of Multi-Organ Transplant
We’re proud to be title sponsor for the New Canvas of Life 50 Shades of Colour event, in support of @LHSCCanada Multi-Organ Transplant Program. Join us on Tuesday, April 21 for a night full of fun and enjoy:
✅ Live Art Battle
✅ Art Auction
✅ Interactive Entertainment
#ldnont #newcanvasoflife #advantagecreated
