Dan Kroffat, organizer of a grassroots initiative to add some finishing touches to the community cenotaph park, had a hard time containing himself before revealing the total funds collected, Oct. 21.

With the aid of local businesses, community groups and residents, $5,830 was raised, shattering the goal of $5,000.

Kroffat says the response shows how supportive residents are of our veterans.

"It spoke to me that if you have a worthy cause, the community will step forward, and they did," says Kroffat.

Legionnaire Dave Usherwood, who heads up the community cenotaph committee, says the money raised will make it possible to purchase the three park benches. The town has already poured concrete pads and will be installing them.

"I'm sure the benches can be ordered, if not installed, this season," says Usherwood. "It's a question of availability from the suppliers. I'm going to be meeting with my committee and the town. It's all doable. It's all positive."

When the two-week fundraising campaign kicked off on Oct. 7, Kroffat said he already had $1,000 in donations. Aeron E. King Goldsmith and Mountain View Optometry donated $500 each. On launch day, Cochrane Home Treasures contributed $1,000. Later in the campaign, the Cochrane Activettes kicked in another $500.

Three one-day events at Cochrane Toyota, McDonald's Restaurant and Cochrane Coffee Traders collectively raised $3,340.

Usherwood says some finishing touches will remain. He believes there may be some more money coming forward for further enhancements, like a naming plaque.

He remains impressed with how the community rallied around the project.

"This makes it nearly a $200,000 project, by the community, for the community."