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This year, on the 25th Anniversary of Kelowna’s iconic Tree of Hope, the Stober Foundation will be matching all funds raised up to $500,000 and directing them to the YMCA of Southern Interior BC and BGC Okanagan – two local charities who are united in sharing their common goal of raising healthier families and communities.

All donations raised through Tree of Hope Campaign will stay local and ensure that these organizations can continue to help all children and families, regardless of financial circumstance, have access to vitally needed resources and services. Together #RaisingHope.

“The BGC Okanagan and YMCA both tackle complex societal issues and help change lives for the better,” says Rhonda Zakala, VP of Fund Development & Marketing, YMCA of Southern Interior BC. “The alignment of our organization’s charitable mission to address our community’s most critical needs by offering high-impact, accessible, and affordable programming makes this the ideal partnership and will have life-changing results for families in our local community. On behalf of our charities and the entire Kelowna community, we are so grateful to share in this timely and transformational gift from the Stober Foundation.”

Donations will be directed to programs such as child care, summer camps, workforce training and leadership development for youth, nourishment for children with breakfast programs, mental health and early-intervention programs and so much more. 

“Now more than ever families are looking for safe and supportive places where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships, and develop skills for life,” says Richelle Leckey, Community Engagement Coordinator, BGC Okanagan. “With all funds raised by our community we will be able to double the impact for the families we serve.”

For the past 25 years, standing 120 feet tall and adorned with over 25,000 LED energy-efficient lights, the Tree of Hope has become a bright symbol of inspiration to the Kelowna community and a focal point in the Landmark District over the holiday season. 

“Through its history, the Tree of Hope has become a beacon for fundraising and represents Kelowna as a community known for its kindness and generosity,” says Keith Brewster, Director and Lead Philanthropist, Stober Foundation. “And in celebration of its 25th anniversary, we are thrilled to donate matching funds for every dollar raised for two local charities that strive every day to ensure that our community and its’ members thrive.”

The lighting ceremony for the Tree of Hope will take place at 5:45pm on Friday, November 25th, followed by a FREE Family Winter Festival the next day on Saturday November 26th from 12 – 4pm both inside and outside Parkinson Recreation Centre. 

For more information or to make a gift with double the impact, please click here.