Buy a Brick – build your community

Much like a house, a bridge, or any other structure, community support for a common goal is built one brick at a time. No one knows this better than the folks behind the “Buy a Brick” campaign powered by Barrie’s Rotarians, and they’d like you to help.

All through March, folks are invited to help expand the brick walkway surrounding the clock at Barrie’s waterfront. One of the campaign organizers, Arlette Utton of Arlington Commercial Properties, expands on the genesis of the project for BarrieToday.

“To commemorate Canada's Sesquicentennial (last year), the three Rotary Clubs of Barrie donated the "Post" clock to the Citizens of Barrie that is located on the Lakeshore at the foot of Bayfield Street.

“The Rotary Clubs have played an instrumental role in the development of Barrie's waterfront having participated in the renovation of the Southshore Centre, the development of The Rotary Islands, Trans Canada Pavilion, Rotary Centennial Fountain, the restoration of Kidd's Creek and the Rotary Gazebo as well as planting hundred of trees.”

Now, to fund the clock, the clubs sold commemorative bricks to form part of the walkway, more than 1,170 bricks in all, topping the initial target of 1,000. Even so, the clubs decided to sell another 500 – and they’re likely to go quickly.

Utton also says more projects will be the beneficiaries of this year’s brick sale.

“This time, the proceeds are going to other Rotary Community projects that include RVH, Georgian College, Hospice Simcoe and other organizations that focus on health, youth and education and seniors.

“The goal is to sell 500 bricks that will raise approximately $30,000.”

Best part is, says Utton, donors can personalize their contribution to the walkway around the clock.

“The bricks can be inscribed with the name of loved one, an organization name or a business.”

Rotary members say the bricks make wonderful gifts that will last for years. What’s more, a commemorative certificate will be provided to donors to recognize their individual contributions.

To get yourself and your neighbours in a kind of springtime mood – and leave your mark on your community for years to come -- why not pick up one of these bricks, anytime between now and March 30, for placement on the walkway during the spring?

Once again, the bricks are $150.00 each and a tax receipt for the full amount is issued. They are available by clicking here.