CONESTOGA COLLEGE
Dodgeball for Danny fundraiser celebrates record-breaking year

The annual Dodgeball for Danny event raised $10,000 for the Shine Foundation and its mission to support children with life-threatening health challenges.

Conestoga students in Advanced Police Studies organize the fundraiser every year to commemorate the life of Danny Holmes, son of fitness instructor Colleen Holmes-Cummings who died of cancer when he was only four.

This year, 18 teams and 140 participants joined the all-day dodgeball tournament held February 28 at the Kitchener - Doon campus in the Conestoga Student Recreation Centre.

"This year's Dodgeball for Danny was truly the biggest event ever. With record-breaking attendance and participation, it surpassed all previous years in terms of scale and impact. The overwhelming support from the community, combined with the tireless efforts of all the Advanced Police Studies students and participants, made this event a memorable and impactful one," Holmes-Cummings said.

Along with students from various Police Foundations programs, the competition was joined by firefighting students. The Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training team raised the most among all participants and student organizer Ava Deutschmann commended the team, saying "their dedication and effort truly stood out."

Holmes-Cummings was also impressed by other programs and college service areas joining the fundraiser.

"Their involvement not only highlighted their commitment to community service, but also added a layer of excitement and professionalism to the event."

Students from the Recreation and Sports Administration program also played a crucial role in the event's success by volunteering as referees to ensure the day ran smoothly. The event also included booths from Waterloo Region, Peel, Guelph and Woodstock police departments and the Canadian Armed Forces. 

"The Dodgeball for Danny event has been a tremendous success, showcasing the incredible spirit and dedication of the Advanced Police Studies. Their dedication and hard work were evident in every aspect of the tournament, making it a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants."

For more than 15 years, the event has raised money in Danny's honour for the Shine Foundation, which supports young people living with severe physical disabilities

Advanced Police Studies is a two-semester graduate certificate program designed to provide students with highly relevant applied skills, integrative learning experiences, and professional network development for careers in policing. Through class discussions, simulations, and applied projects, students will gain experience in dealing with social and organizational issues related to police services and community safety within increasingly diverse communities.

Conestoga's School of Community Services is a leader in translating students' passions for working with people and making a difference in community into successful careers in human services and community safety.