2023 was a busy year for the Okanagan Commandery, and we are very excited about our results. It’s also, of course, motivating us to do even more in 2024!Our Commandery is a small, but mighty and focused group. It currently consists of 14 members who banded together to work on these amazing projects:
- Donated in excess of $45,000 to NOW Canada to furnish the construction of a children’s’ playground at the site of the newest supportive housing project. NOW Canada provides frontline programs, housing and services for women and youth who have experienced addiction, abuse, sexual exploitation and mental health challenges.
- Hosted a fundraising event to raise money for The Bridge Youth and Family Services programming. Raised and donated in excess of $50,000 for the “Beyond The Blues” program aimed specifically at fostering healthy moms, babies and families by helping those impacted by postpartum depression and anxiety.
- Donated $12,500 to purchase playground equipment for Julia’s Junction, an inclusive playground project offering an accessible playsite for children of all abilities.
Looking ahead to 2024, we expect to make a donation of $10,000 to establish an endowment in support of students enrolled at Okanagan College’s Gateway Program. The program supports at risk high school students who live with poverty, mental health issues and a myriad of other obstacles to success.
Even in our valley that’s filled with abundance, the need for support is great, and we are so humbled and pleased to be able to play our small part. We are also looking forward to growing our commandery this year with new aspirants ready & eager to join us.
Here are some pictures from our events!
Incredible evening raising funds for The Bridge Youth and Family Services – hosted by our Commander, Debra Martin, and her wonderful husband, Jeff.
