Rocking for a cause: Winnipeg A&W hosts Bands and Burgers fundraiser for MS

A&W Turns into a Pop-up Music Festival for MS Fundraiser in Winnipeg

A&W restaurants across the country are known for their annual fundraiser for MS Canada, but one Winnipeg burger joint is taking it to the next level with a pop-up music festival. For the second year in a row, Clint Chaboyer, a musician and videographer from Manitoba, has transformed the A&W across from CF Polo Park mall into a music-filled event for Burgers to Beat MS Day. Chaboyer, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2021, decided to get involved with the charity event after receiving support from MS Canada. Last year, he helped raise nearly $4,000 for the cause by organizing musicians and entertainment for the event at the location on Portage Avenue.

Supporting a Good Cause and Giving Back

Chaboyer has been part of Winnipeg‘s music scene for many years and has a wide network of talented musicians. When he saw an ad looking for someone to help coordinate the entertainment for MS Day, he immediately jumped on board. Not only did he want to support a cause that has helped him immensely, but he also wanted to give other musicians an opportunity to donate their time and talent. Chaboyer believes that the combination of live music and delicious burgers will attract large crowds and help surpass last year’s fundraising total.

The Lineup and Fundraising Goals

The pop-up music festival features a diverse lineup of musicians, starting with bluesman Curtis Newton in the morning and closing with a performance by hip-hop-inspired rockers Pure Entry at 6:30 p.m. Other notable acts include guitar virtuoso Ronnie Ladobruk, folk-rock group The Gerry Hatricks, and singer-songwriter Deidra Borus. Chaboyer hopes that their performances, along with the mouth-watering burgers, will encourage attendees to contribute generously. While he aims to raise over $5,000 this year, he dreams of reaching the impressive milestones of $10,000 or even $20,000.

A&W‘s Long-standing Commitment to MS Fundraising

The owner and operator of the A&W restaurant on Portage Avenue, Brett Falconer, has been involved in the annual MS fundraiser for the past 14 years. While live bands have only been part of the event for two years, Falconer emphasizes the importance of supporting such a worthy cause. Multiple sclerosis is a neurological disease that affects many Canadians, and the day holds significance for Falconer and his staff. Their deep commitment to the community is evident as they eagerly prepare for this event months in advance. Falconer is confident that they will sell a significant number of teen burgers, a popular item, during the fundraiser.

In conclusion, the A&W restaurant in Winnipeg is once again transforming into a pop-up music festival for its annual MS fundraiser. Clint Chaboyer, a musician and videographer living with multiple sclerosis, plays a crucial role in organizing the musicians and entertainment. With a diverse lineup of talented acts and the allure of delicious burgers, the event aims to raise funds and awareness for MS Canada. The dedication of A&W‘s owner and staff to supporting the community demonstrates the significance of this day for everyone involved. By combining music, food, and a good cause, they hope to surpass previous fundraising totals and make a meaningful impact in the fight against multiple sclerosis.