Dear Editor,
On July 4, Bowen Island Gives (BIG!) hosted its 4th annual BIG! hike and party, raising more than $5,000 to help at-risk and homeless youth at Covenant House Vancouver. More than 200 youth will receive life-changing support through street outreach, a drop-in centre, a residential crisis program, and long-term transitional housing apartments.
Nearly 70 hikers, ranging from seven months old to older than 70, braved the dry, hot conditions to climb Mt Gardner. In the evening, local band Ginger 66 donated their time and incredibly fun talent to entertain 100 guests at the BIG! celebration party.
Both the 9 km round-trip trail up Mt. Gardner, and the dance floor at Cates Hill Chapel were filled with love from a community passionate about helping youth in search a brighter future.
On behalf of the youth, volunteers and staff at Covenant House Vancouver, and the Bowen Island Gives! board, a BIG! thank you to everyone involved who helped make this fundraiser such a success: Ginger 66, Peter King & Bowen Island Bus, Cates Hill Chapel, Julie Cree & Artisan Eats, Tim Hausch, photographer Scott Slater, McTaggart Water, all of the wonderful shops and groups for helping to spread the word on-island and off, all of the dedicated volunteers who spent countless hours planning the festivities and facilitating the entire day and night, and the more than 100 participants and donors who provided their support!
Together we are creating opportunities for positive change in youth’s lives. Thank you.
Jessica Harman
Development Officer – Corporate & Foundation Giving
