Over $10K Raised for Charity

It’s our pleasure to attend CWIM Gather’s Conference for women+ physicians every year to connect with our community partners, meet women+ doctors from across Canada, celebrate each other, and learn from amazing women+ speakers. 

This year, the 2026 CWIM Conference was held in the heart of Winnipeg, Manitoba, not far from the Forks National Historic Site. This location is special because it’s been a gathering place for thousands of years thanks to the legendary Red and Assiniboine Rivers that flow through the area. 

A highlight for us at the conference is hosting a social event and choosing a local charity to support. The talented Social Committee decided to create the Ultimate Coast-to-Coast Dance Party & Closet Swap with a sunset prairie-theme to reflect the beauty of Manitoba. Many party-goers came dressed in their best reds, pinks, oranges, and yellows to match the mood of sunset over the serene prairies.

Because Winnipeg is experiencing a rise in homelessness, the charity we chose to support was Main Street Project. Main Street Project has been serving Winnipeg’s most vulnerable residents since 1972 through programming and services aimed at building stability for community members in need. 

To help with fundraising, we ran a closet swap and had a donation portal available throughout the week. Attendees were encouraged to bring up to three pieces of gently loved clothing or accessories in exchange for tickets to swap for items they’d like to take home. New items kept arriving as the night went on, so the racks were continually re-stocked throughout the event. For those without tickets to swap, pieces could be purchased with a charitable donation which contributed to the overall fundraising goal. 

The entertainment featured two talented local Drag Queens who served gorgeous looks and dance moves before mingling with partygoers. We had a fully stocked candy bar with fresh popcorn and drinks served by friendly bartenders. The DJ truly understood the vibes and kept the party going on the dance floor with a mix of throwbacks and current bangers. Everyone looked like they had a ton of fun picking clothes, snacking, chatting with friends, and dancing the night away!

Our fundraising goal was to reach $10,000. And, we did it! The final amount raised was $10,515. This achievement is a beautiful testament to the compassion that defines CWIM. Thank you to all who participated and donated. We look forward to next year’s festivities and fundraiser.