Every 8 May, Angus McDonald’s gives back to local communities with a team of enthusiastic volunteers, including CFB Borden military members
On one of its busiest days of the year, Angus McDonald’s celebrated McHappy Day on 8 May 2024 by inviting members of Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Borden’s Command Team to volunteer their service and give back to local charities and the surrounding communities.
Canadian Forces Logistics Training Centre (CFLTC) Chief Warrant Officer Susan Chiasson and CFB Borden Base Commander Colonel Jonathan Michaud spent part of their morning at the drive-thru windows of the Angus McDonald’s location, serving up the breakfast menu to local CFB Borden members and civilians.
Raising about $11,000 at the Angus location alone, McHappy day resulted in donations totals of $16,737 for Ronald McDonald House Charities, $11,716 for Stevenson Memorial Hospital, $3,366 for Matthews House Hospice and $1,654 for the Borden Family Resource Center (BFRC).
Vanessa Breen, General Manager and McHappy Day coordinator, couldn’t contain her excitement about the day’s achievements with this year’s events marking her 30th McHappy Day and first McHappy Day in Angus.
“Meeting [CFB Borden Base Commander] Colonel Michaud, who’s such a humble man, and serving guests side by side with him was so awesome!” said Breen.
According to Breen, the event wasn’t just about fundraising; it was a dynamic community gathering.
“Having the volunteers in was a big highlight for us,” Breen noted. “It’s just a great way of giving back. They help to shape the brand and they provide our restaurant and employees with an outlet to make a positive difference in our community.”
Reflecting on her three-decade tenure with McDonald’s and the impact of McHappy Day, Breen shared her personal fulfillment.
“Thinking back on 30 years, there’s so much I can comment on,” she said. “For me, the biggest reason I do this job is because it gives back. I’ve always wanted to do something that gives back to our community.”
As the day’s events came to a close, Angus McDonald’s staff were extremely grateful for the support of volunteers and the community’s donations to local charities. This McHappy Day was not only a successful fundraising event, but an opportunity for Angus and surrounding townships to celebrate and support one another, reinforcing a sense of community that stretches beyond rank, occupation and background.
By: Caleb Hooper
