The community has enthusiastically embraced the Grand Parade fundraiser for Sooke Gathering Place so far in record fashion. But organizers are still looking for more teams to step up to help the event cross the finish line with a flourish.
"The response has been great," said Marlene Barry, lead organizer for the event for Sooke Region Community Health Network, (SRCHN) the driving force behind Sooke Gathering Place. "We're No. 1 in Canada for the metrics in funds brought in to date for first-timers putting on this event. But we've been stuck at 16 teams for a while, and want to reach our goal of $20,000 raised with at least 20 teams and 120 walkers."
The Grand Parade on Sept. 21, supported by the Blue Sea Foundation, celebrates and supports aging Canadians and their families across Canada. The event enables Canadians to step out and honour aging friends and family while raising funds for the charities that support them.
The walk begins and ends at the kiosk in front of the Evergreen Mall on Sooke Road. Participants will walk a 2.5 or 5-km route with treats available at a rest stop along the way, followed by a celebration meal and entertainment. Walks off-site are also available. Those who raise over $150, or $75 for youth, will receive The Gathering Place T-shirts.
"Getting the Sooke Gathering Place built is important to the health of our community," said Barry, a reflexologist and longtime SRCHN volunteer. "Social isolation costs in ways beyond physical and mental health. This facility will help so many elders age well within their community, so we're encouraging residents of all ages to register for the walk and fundraise in this fun, family-friendly event."
SRCHN vice-president Mary Dunn, lead organizer for Sooke Gathering Place, points out that Sooke has been without a seniors centre for more than 14 years, one of the few communities in B.C. that does not have one.
Sooke Gathering Place will be housed within an elders complex with up to 76 affordable housing rental units for individuals 55 plus on Wadams Way. It will include a multi-generational activity centre on the ground floor for socializing, recreation, and enrichment.
The fundraising goal is $2 million, with more than $174,200 raised so far through a variety of fundraising initiatives, sponsors, and donations.
Visit https://thegrandparade.org/location/sooke to register for the Grand Parade, or more information.
