A Vernon tire shop celebrated its 55th anniversary with a dunk tank, a BBQ and support for local families.
Trail Tire Auto Centre was founded as Tirecraft in 1968.
Business is going strong 55 years later, and to celebrate the milestone, Trail Tire threw a party in its parking lot last Saturday, June 3, filled with family-friendly games and good eats.
Matt Vanderhorst is a second-generation owner of Trail Tire, his father having purchased the business from founder Jack Peters.
He said Saturday’s event was all about giving back to a community that has supported the business for decades.
“We wanted to do some stuff that was fun for the kids, so we made sure there were activities so if anybody stopped by they’d have some fun,” he said, gesturing to a dunk tank that was “a hit” all day, and some tire targets for kids to use to practice their football-throwing skills.
“It feels really good to be a community-centred business that’s stood the test of time here 55 years later.”
The event featured a BBQ by donation, and all proceeds went towards the North Okanagan Youth and Family Services Society (NOYFSS).
Vanderhorst said NOYFSS was selected for the work they do in the community making families stronger.
“The foundation of our family – whether it’s customers, employees, whoever – it starts with strong families, and a community organization that’s funded by donation means a lot to our community,” he said.
“We want to participate in whatever way we can.”
Karen Cleland, director of operations for NOYFSS, was at the event, saying funds raised from the BBQ would go towards free children’s and parenting groups.
“It’s just a great community event and a great example of another member of the community supporting everything that we do at NOYFSS,” Cleland said.
“NOYFSS serves many members of the community, with programs funded by the Ministry of Children and Family Development that help families that are struggling in any kind of way.
“We help them to stay on their feet and stay intact.
“And this fundraiser will help us to keep providing groups that are free to the community for children and youth and also for families.”
Vanderhorst said he was pleased with the turnout as a steady stream of people came by throughout the day.
READ MORE: Trail Tire Vernon wraps up anniversary series with a heartfelt ‘thank you’
READ MORE: Local tire and auto centre owner says his business is in his blood