Community groups have received a big boost.
VantageOne Credit Union handed $100,000 to 11 charities Thursday.
“We’re able to be able to help organizations directly in the community which is exciting,” said Glenn Benischek, VantageOne chief executive officer.
The largest amount, $50,000, went to the North Okanagan Youth and Family Services Society to expand its building in downtown Vernon.
“We received 84 applications with over $1.8 Million in funds requested,” said Benischek. “Our board selected the recipients and provided our staff with a list of four organizations eligible for the grand prize of $50,000. Our staff then voted on the winner of the $50,000 from these four organizations.”
And NOYFSS is thrilled to have been chosen.
“Our whole purpose is to support and strengthen families,” said Jan Shumay, NOFYSS executive director.
The other recipients are:
Vernon Bosom Buddies — $200 for care bags for breast cancer patients
Okanagan Quality Life Society — $2,500 for personal flotation devices
Edgewood Royal Canadian Legion — $2,800 to renovate its club room
Community Dental Access Centre — $5,000 so low-income families receive dental care
Armstrong Royal Canadian Legion — $5,000 for pancake breakfast equipment
Santas Anonymous — $5,000 to improve its ability to provide gifts to children
Girl Guides — $5,000 to update the Camp Tillicum kitchen
Family Resource Centre — $7,000 for client services
North Okanagan Child Care Society — $7,500 for infant toddler play space
Learning Disabilities Association — $10,000 for tutoring and counselling
“We were excited by the positive response from our call for applications to the VantageOne Great Community Giveaway,” Benischek added. “It highlights the amount of service that these organizations provide in our communities and the need for funds.”
