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Good came from challenge to `go jump in the lake' continued from p.1 It recognizes volunteers, sponsors, celebrities and supporters who demonstrate the spirit of humanity through their volunteer work, advocacy initiatives, leadership, media coverage, and philanthropy in communities across Canada. World Vision president and CEO Dave Toycen said the Courage brothers embody what the award celebrates. They have really transformed what was a spontaneous dive in the lake on New Year's Day into a significant fundraiser that impacts lives, not only in the local community, but communities abroad. "They've made jumping in the lake not just fun, but a time to give generously to children and families who are in desperate need of water overseas," said Toycen, who has participated in the polar dip in the past. "I think that attracts people who want to take a risk, do something kind of crazy, but at the same time want to do something for somebody that will make a difference in their lives. "They set a wonderful example of how motivated volunteers can really make such a difference," he continued, noting how 28,000 people have better access to clean water now because of the money raised through the annual dip since 1995. The brothers, who were also awarded the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal in 2012 through their endeavors. "We had no idea when we first started doing this it would develop into something as big as this," continued Todd, 50. Trent, 46, added the annual event has captured the "imagination of so many other people" as more and more participants within the community has stepped up to raise money for World Vision, which has benefited from the community dip since 1995, receiving more than $1.2 million to date. The money has been used to improve the lives of those less fortunate by providing a water supply and better sanitation and hygiene. In Rwanda, four years ago, Trent, Todd and Gaye got to see firsthand how the funds raised from the annual polar dip event has impacted the community. Trent and Todd said it was an eye-opening experience that has left an imprint on their lives as they saw the conditions children were living in. They described how they saw children carrying heavy yellow containers of dirty water for several kilometres from a pond back to their villages and homes. "Being fathers ourselves, it definitely hit home and makes you realize the impact (you have)," said Trent, who has three boys aged 12, 10 and seven. The brothers said they're proud the event continues to be successful and hope people will continue supporting it year after year. 5 | Friday, January 24, 2014 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Trent Courage, left, and his brother Todd Courage, co-founded the Courage Brothers' Annual Polar Bear Dip, which has raised millions for World Vision water projects globally. | Oakville Beaver file photo and an Oakville Community Spirit Award in 2009, said they're honoured and humbled to receive the new recognition. They said it isn't the work of one individual, but of a whole community that has rallied in support of a great cause. The Courages admit they never imagined their annual New Year's Day tradition evolving into a community-wide event that would have hundreds of brave dippers plunging into the frigid waters of Lake Ontario each year in support of the international relief agency. "When we started off, it was just a fun thing to do," said Todd, noting how after challenging the brothers to "go jump in the lake" near their family home, which was in Burlington at the time, their mother also joined in. The brothers said she continues to be a source of support and encouragement The Electric Fireplace Shop 6 Hurontario St. Miss. 905-278-7337 · We Carry Inserts & Mantel Packages · Wall Mount & Recess · Custom Mantels Starting from CLEARANCE ON SELECTED FLOOR MODELS INJURED? I Can Help! YOU DON'T HAVE TO PAY UNLESS I GET YOU MONEY My team of experienced lawyers can help you with: · Car accidents · Slip and Falls · Disability Claims (Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, CPP) · Wrongful Dismissal OFFICES IN OAKVILLE AND TORONTO For a free consultation call: Oakville: 905.842.2022 or Toronto: 416.351.9222 email: sspadafora@slspc.ca $499.00 Over 60 models on display. Largest in GTA Visit our website theelectricfireplaceshop.com Hwy 10 lakeshore Rd. A STEP BEYOND IN CARE DO YOU HAVE: Salima Kassam Reg. Chiropodist · Foot/Arch Pain? · Ingrown Toenails? · Diabetes? · Swollen Ankles? · Corns, Calluses? CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT 905-632-1414 Sam Spadafora Injury and Employment Law 728 Burloak Drive www.footandhealthclinic.com