For Allan Simpson serving the community’s greatest needs has been his inspiration through more than 40 years of service with the Kin Club of Brighton.
This just so happens to be Kin Canada’s official motto, too – it was a purpose Simpson could get behind, and one that continues to push him to carry on daily, even as recruitment challenges persist.
“I enjoy it – I enjoy the camaraderie we’ve got and what I can do for my community,” says Simpson, of his volunteer work.
Decades ago, Simpson started out in the secretary role – he proceeded to take on all the positions, making his way to president. He’s now held the role of president for more than 20 years.
The first edition of the Brighton club was in 1976, but the origin of Kin Canada dates back to more than a century ago, with the club started by Hal Rogers in Hamilton, Ont., in 1920. The organization has grown with clubs nationwide.
Clubs across Canada have now donated more than $1 billion to causes, communities and people in need, in addition to helping with disaster relief efforts beyond the nation’s borders. In 2023-24, Kin collectively raised more than $23 million.
In Brighton, the club has been active with the community’s signature Applefest event since the start. Most people are familiar with its famous pancake breakfast fundraisers on Canada Day and Applefest, but the club does so much more.
In the last year alone, Simpson tells us the club through its fundraisers has helped hospitals across Northumberland, local schools – whether with student nutrition or playground equipment – the food bank, and more. Past projects have included everything from helping local sports clubs, to the Cedar Street Park, a $10,000 boost for the then new King Edward arena, among many other projects.
In this podcast below, Simpson tells us more about the start of the club, its impact in the community, hopes for the future, and more.
