Silverwood gives $100K to Canopy Village
Silverwood Theme Park donated $100,000 to Canopy Village during a presentation Wednesday. Front row, from left: RaeAnn Kuykendall and Mary Anderson. Middle row, from left: Sara Meddock, Christine Shear, Vanessa Moos, Rosa Mettler and Shyloh Qalo. Back row, from left: Joan Rolland, Tony Lucena and Marie Nail.
Courtesy photo
Every cent guests donated during Silverwood Theme Park's historic train ride this summer contributed to a $100,000 gift to Canopy Village, delivered Wednesday by park staff.
Sara Meddock, the park's public relations manager, said nearly $33,000 was raised from patrons during the infamously staged Steam Engine No. 7 train robbery show. Silverwood founders Gary and Jeanne Norton matched that amount and then some, bringing the total to $100,000.
"We have worked closely with Canopy Village for many years," Meddock said in a press release. "Knowing how these funds make such a difference in the lives of the kids and teens they serve is a great feeling."
Canopy Village, formerly known as Children's Village, is a trauma-responsive safe haven in Coeur d'Alene. It restores trust and hope for children and families who experience abuse, neglect or crisis.
"The need for our work is surging," Canopy Village Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Moos said in the release. "Silverwood is our largest foundation gift each year, and we are so incredibly grateful for the donations from the train as well as the Norton family to provide these critical services to our local community."
The Nortons and Silverwood's support of Children's Village reached $1 million in 2021, and another $100,000 was given in 2022 and 2023.
Located in Athol, Silverwood features over 70 rides, slides, shows and attractions.