Man Celebrates 100th Birthday with Donation to Plant Trees

Aug 10th, 2020 12:29 PM

Media Release Barrie, ON (August 10, 2020) - Canada's newest Centenarian, Fred Mogelin, celebrated his 100th birthday on August 10th. From June until his milestone birthday, Fred walked 800 metres-a-day, seven days a week, to raise funds for Forests Ontario - a non-profit charity dedicated to tree planting, forest education and awareness. His efforts culminated in a donation of $5,000. "Fred's passion for forests is truly heartwarming," said Rob Keen, Forests Ontario's CEO. "He understands that healthy forests are essential for a healthy planet; they clean the air, mitigate the impacts of climate change and support human health." At Fred's birthday party, held on the grounds of his retirement residence in Barrie, Rob presented Fred with a certificate of appreciation that included messages of support from campaign donors. Fred was inspired to raise funds for Forests Ontario after watching a television program about Tom Moore - an English veteran who raised £32 million for Britain's National Health Service during the COVID-19 pandemic. "I thought, if he can do it, I can do it," Fred explained. "I like nature and, in particular, trees. And Forests Ontario is known for doing a very good job with planting trees. We need to keep nature going."

Fred Mogelin (left) and Rob Keen (right) A veteran himself, Fred immigrated to Canada from Germany in 1953. He fell in love with Canada's forests and took frequent camping trips with his wife and kids. Fred - who has four children, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren - said his secret to long life is a clove of garlic in the morning and a glass of merlot at night. "I hope that Fred's efforts will inspire others to take action," Rob said. "If every Ontarian donated just $1.00, Forests Ontario could plant millions of additional trees." Forests Ontario has facilitated the planting of more than 34 million trees across the province and beyond. To make a donation, visit www.forestsontario.ca -30- For more information, photos, or to arrange an interview please contact: MJ Kettleborough Communications Manager Forests Ontario / Forest Recovery Canada W: 416.646.1193 ext. 237 C: 416.997.0880 E: mkettleborough@forestsontario.ca About Forests Ontario Forests Ontario is a not-for-profit charity dedicated to re-greening the province through the support of forest restoration, stewardship, education and awareness. We promote Canada's greatest natural resource - our forests - because healthy forests sustain healthy communities and healthy economies. Forests Ontario is the voice of our forests. Visit www.forestsontario.ca or follow us @Forests_Ontario to find out more.

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Man Celebrates 100th Birthday with Donation to Plant Trees

Aug 10th, 2020 12:29 PM