The always-popular North Okanagan Neurological Association (NONA) Lights for Kids fundraiser is returning this holiday season in Vernon and beyond.
NONA’s downtown buildings will be transformed and illuminated into a winter wonderland from Dec. 3-31, adorned with festive decor that was crafted by local artist and sign designer Nancy Wilde.
The lights and donations will be on display every evening from 5-9 p.m, as a part of the John Christmas Light Tour, which has Vernon, Armstrong and Coldstream tour maps available at johnchristmaseveryday.com/2023-christmas-light-tour.
“Gather your loved ones, hop in the car, and embark on a magical journey to witness the enchanting Christmas decorations at NONA,” said event coordinator Gina Watson.
NONA provides speech therapy, infant development, autism services and more to more than 850 children and families each year.
It has secured a spot on the popular light tour, which this year will expand to Coldstream and Armstrong, in partnership with Kal Tire.
“The event has captured the community’s heart in the past two years, and we’re thrilled to bring it back with even more magic,” said executive director Helen Armstrong. “With the expanded tour, an engaging online silent auction, and partnerships with local businesses, we invite everyone to shop local and raise funds for NONA.”
A previous NONA fundraiser, pictures with Santa at The Nicholas Alexander Home and Garden Santa raised more than $1,200 on Nov. 19. Due to its success, Santa returned for another picture session on Dec. 10.
You can also support NONA by shopping at Kaleco Saturday, Nov. 25 and Sunday, Nov. 26, where five per cent of all sales will be donated.
Indulge in the NONA doughnut at Ratio every Friday throughout December and $1 from each goes towards supporting NONA.
Find adorable kids’ Christmas outfits at Chicken Little Dec. 2 and contribute five per cent of all sales to the children supported by NONA.
Match Eatery & Public House will donate $1 from every dessert ordered from Dec. 3 to 31.
Explore Christmas gift options at Teeter Totter Toys Dec. 6 and 8, where five per cent of your purchase goes to NONA.
Experience the magic of the season with a screening of The Grinch (2018) at Vernon Town Cinema on Dec. 14, 6 p.m. All ticket sales will be donated to NONA.
As an added delight, NONA invites the community to a drive-through event on Saturday, Dec. 16, from 5 to 7 p.m. The by-donation evening will feature a chance to meet Santa and his helpers, who will be spreading joy by distributing goodie bags to all the kids and offering prize giveaways.
There are 50 $25 gift certificates to Match Eatery and Public House, plus two $200 Village Green Mall gift cards to giveaway to a couple lucky winners.
To donate, visit nona-cdc.com. Every dollar raised stays within the community to benefit programs and children served at NONA.
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