The Difference “Just a Guy” Can Make

Scott McKague was “just a guy”—until he saw a need and stepped up. Three years later, his CNOY event has raised hundreds of thousands.

Blue Sea Foundation • February 27, 2025

Newsletter

Subscribe and stay up to date on all things peer-to-peer fundraising.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Scott McKague never planned to organize a major fundraising event. He was “just a guy”, a forklift driver, whose friend invited him to walk in the Coldest Night of the Year. Volunteering had always been important to him, and after just one CNOY event, he saw firsthand how simple acts—like a winter walk—could make a big impact. Later, when he moved to a new town and looked for a local CNOY event to join, he realized there wasn’t one—even though the need was there. So it was up to him to run one.  

Scott got to work and partnered with Operation Sharing; three years later (and counting!) the impact has been incredible. Watch Scott’s story here:

YouTube video


Scott will tell you he’s “just a guy.” We’ll tell you that he is a catalyst for change who has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for his local community. Yes, CNOY is about community—charities, walkers, volunteers, and all the people who donate—but it only takes one person to spark that impact. 

Are you ready to be a changemaker? Find the Coldest Night of the Year event near you. Or be like Scott, and start one yourself. There’s always more good that we can do, together.

Learn more about CNOY

Blue Sea Foundation

Related Articles

youth jumping for joy as they participate in the coldest night of the year walk

Everything You Need To Know About P2P Fundraising Events

Peer-to-peer fundraising events raise big money, engage communities, and amplify your cause. Here’s why every nonprofit should host one—and how to do it right.

Jen Taylor • March 19, 2025

5 Must Haves for a Successful Fundraising Event

Did you know fundraising events have powered communities for centuries? From Egyptians supporting pyramid builders to Benjamin Franklin funding Philadelphia’s militia through a lottery in

Brian Carney • March 18, 2025

First Ride, Big Impact: A Ride for Refuge Partner Success Story

A community united to support newcomers, turning a fundraising effort into a powerful movement of generosity, unity, and lasting impact.

Blue Sea Foundation • February 27, 2025

Got Questions about The Grand Parade?

Wondering if The Grand Parade is right for your charity? Join a live Zoom call to learn more about this year’s campaign.

  • Live Experts
  • Free Advice
  • No Pressure
Register to Join

Curious About RIDE 2025?

Wondering if the Ride for Refuge is right for your charity? Join a live Zoom call to learn more about this year’s campaign.

  • Live Experts
  • Free Advice
  • No Pressure
Register to Join

Get Your Questions Answered 

Wondering if the Ride for Refuge or The Grand Parade is right for your charity? Join a live Zoom call to get all the details for a 2025 campaign.

  • Live Experts
  • Free Advice
  • No Pressure
Register to Join