Harmony Founder on the receiving end of her ‘pay it forward’ philosophy

For several years, the philosophy of Joanne Klauke-Labelle has been to "pay it forward," starting with the work she formally begin in 1995 with Harmony for Youth, a charity that offers after-school programs, music and theatre classes, tutoring and mentoring.

Now Klauke-Labelle, who retired earlier this year, citing health reasons, is on the receiving end of a group that has launched "For the Love of Joanne," the intention being to help her with medical expenses resulting from a rare form of kidney disease.

Donations can be made at Southwest Regional Credit Union locations in Sarnia, Corunna, Wyoming and Wallaceburg.

A group of volunteers is organizing several fundraising events, including a Wine tasting and Auction on August 24. The 7 p.m. event will be held at the Point Edward Optimist Hall.

Also scheduled is a Bowl for Joanne on August 25 at Marcin Bowl starting at 4:30 p.m. as well as a Rockin' Auction at the New Jack Doyle's Irish Grille and Sports Bar on August 26. The 2 p.m. event will feature local bands.

Tickets to the events and pledge sheets for the bowling event are available from the Harmony Centre, 251 Campbell St., 519-336-0344

Tags: fundraiser, harmony founder, joanne klauke-labelle, kidney disease, Sarnia