Tree of Hope campaign raises $1 million for Okanagan children, youth and families
The 25th annual Tree of Hope campaign in support of the YMCA of Southern Interior and BGC Okanagan has reached their collective goal to raise $1 million.
The Stober Foundation closed out the campaign with a gift of $500,000, matching the donations raised by the two local charities during the holiday season.
“This is a transformational gift for both of our charities, and we are humbled and inspired by the incredible support shown by our community partners and friends,” says Jeremy Welder, CEO of BGC Okanagan.
“As both organizations and the community recover from the past couple of years, these funds will help us ensure the continuation of vital programs and services that empower youth, improve the health of our children, and provide equitable opportunities for families of all income levels. We couldn’t be more grateful to the Stober Foundation, local businesses and individuals for their incredible generosity,” says Allyson Graf, CEO of the YMCA of Southern Interior.
The YMCA of Southern Interior and BGC Okanagan extend a special thanks to all the businesses and organizations that sponsored the Tree of Hope and who were instrumental in helping both charities reach their goal: Landmark District, TD Canada Trust, KF Aerospace, Traine Construction & Development, Highstreet Ventures Inc., TELUS, RE/MAX Kelowna Stone Sisters Real Estate, Sentes Automotive, Parkbridge, Rotary Club of Kelowna, WSP, Peacock Sheridan Group, Kal-West Mechanical and the Kelowna Kinsmen Club.
“We are thrilled to support the YMCA of Southern Interior and BGC Okanagan as this year’s recipients of the Tree of Hope funds,” says Ken Stober, Foundation Chair. “Through the campaign we were able to showcase two very hardworking charities who have a united mission to promote healthy and resilient children, youth and families through safe, supportive and barrier-free programs that change lives for the better.”