NTN Canada is proud to announce that its 'Happier Smiles, Happier Faces' campaign raised a total of $15,000 in support of Iris Kirby House. The donation was announced at the 2022 NTN Distributor Advisory Conference Gala Dinner, which took place at The Rooms Provincial Art Gallery of Newfoundland and Labrador on June 16, 2022. Canada’s top industrial distribution companies contributed to this campaign and participated in the cheque presentation ceremony in support of Iris Kirby House, a shelter and a safe haven for women and children who are experiencing domestic violence.

Dignitaries in attendance included The Honourable Siobhan Coady, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, Newfoundland and Labrador & Ms. Debbie Hanlon, City Councillor, St. John’s. The NTN group donation made through its network of industrial distributors will be used to fund the installation of a new security system at the Iris Kirby House. Special thanks to the generous donors of this incredible fundraising campaign: Affiliated Distributors Inc., Applied Industrial Technologies, BDI Canada Ltd., Canadian Bearings Limited, Ficodis Inc., General Bearing Service Inc., Motion Industries (Canada) Inc., and Wajax Ltd.

“We are deeply touched by the generous support of our distributors”, said Mr. Paul Meo, President & CEO of NTN Bearing Corporation of Canada. “As individuals and as an organization, all of us at NTN have a deep connection to the communities in which we operate and feel we have a responsibility to give back and lend our support where it can make a difference. We feel honoured to have distributor partners that feel the same way. The personal stories we heard really drove home how important Iris Kirby house is to so many families in Newfoundland. And while our Happier Smiles, Happier Face Campaign has ended for this important cause, Iris Kirby House still needs more support, so we encourage everyone to visit their donation page as it’s never too late to contribute to such a worthwhile cause.”

Over 80 guests were treated to spectacular live entertainment, including the St. Patrick’s dancers, known for their Irish step dancing, performed with tap shoes. Their stunning dance performance set to traditional Newfoundland music had the audience spellbound. One of the sad effects of the pandemic has been the dramatic surge in domestic violence and what stood out most was hearing from a young mother who escaped violence and has built a new, safer life with the help of Iris Kirby House. The generosity of the room at this gala was incredible and the NTN family and its distributor partners are so proud to have offered their support to this worthy cause.

The evening program also included a key-note presentation and live auction conducted by special guest, NASCAR driver, Alex Tagliani. Alex delivered remarks to recognize the importance of supporting struggling kids and mothers across the country who need emergency services —food, shelter, clothing, medical care and safety. Alex also led the live auction of his collector’s racing helmet to raise funds and support for Le Mitan, a shelter for women victims of domestic violence and their children. This cause is very near and dear to Tagliani as it is in close proximity to his TAG E-Karting Centre. Mr. Mike Allen, President of Applied Technologies, presented a cheque for $5,000 to Le Mitan Women’s Service on August 27, 2022, representing a combined donation on behalf of Applied Industrial Technolgies, NTN Canada and Tagliani Foundation.

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