Go-Go Group’s Trunk or Treat: A Community Event Making a Difference for Pediatric Care

On a sunny October afternoon, the parking lot at Knowledge Park was transformed by Go-Go Group into a Halloween wonderland. Families gathered, and the excitement was contagious as hundreds of kids, dressed as their favorite superheroes, princesses, and ghouls, visited elaborately decorated vehicles for a festive day of trick-or-treating. But beyond the fun and costumes, this year’s Trunk or Treat event held a deeper purpose—raising vital funds for pediatric care at Horizon’s Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital.

With the help of the Fredericton community, local businesses, and generous sponsors, Go-Go Gymnastics raised an incredible $11,900 to support children in need of critical healthcare through a donation to the Chalmers Foundation.

A Personal Connection to Pediatric Care

For Kara Angus, owner of Go-Go, this event isn’t just another fundraiser—it’s personal. Several years ago, her own child was diagnosed with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a condition that can be particularly dangerous for young children. During this difficult time, Kara’s family relied on the expert care provided by the pediatric team at Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital.

“Watching my child struggle to breathe was the most terrifying experience of my life,” said Kara. “The pediatric staff at the hospital was nothing short of amazing. They gave us the support, care, and expertise we needed to get through that time. That’s why I am so passionate about giving back and ensuring that other families have access to the same level of care that we did.”

A Community Effort to Support Local Healthcare

The Trunk or Treat event, now an annual tradition, brought together local businesses, families, and volunteers to make a lasting impact on children’s health. Sponsors decorated their vehicles in festive Halloween themes, from Sesame Street to Barbie, while handing out candy to eager trick-or-treaters.

“Seeing the community come together like this is heartwarming,” Kara shared. “It’s about more than just having fun; it’s about supporting each other and making sure our children have access to the healthcare they deserve.”

How the Funds Will Help

The $11,900 raised will go directly to enhancing pediatric care at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital through the Chalmers Foundation, ensuring that families across the region have access to life-saving treatments, advanced medical equipment, and compassionate care. The funds will help improve the hospital’s pediatric services, from specialized care for conditions like RSV to the everyday needs of children who find themselves in the hospital.

For Charles A. Diab, CEO of the Chalmers Foundation, the event serves as a powerful reminder of the difference that community-driven initiatives can make.

“We are incredibly grateful to Kara and her team at Go-Go Group,” Charles said. “These funds will make a real impact on the care we’re able to provide for children in our region. Third-party events like Go Go’s Trunk or Treat show how a community can come together to create lasting change.”

The Importance of Giving Back

For many families, the pediatric unit at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital is a lifeline during challenging times. Events like Trunk or Treat help ensure that this critical care remains accessible, giving parents peace of mind that their children are in good hands when it matters most.

As we celebrate the success of this year’s event, it’s a reminder of the powerful role that local businesses, like Go-Go Group’s, play in giving back to the community. By working together, we can all help build a healthier, stronger future for our children.

If you missed this year’s Trunk or Treat event but would still like to contribute to pediatric care at The Chalmers Foundation, donations can be made here.