Big White Ski Resort Makes a Generous Donation to Kelowna Women's Shelter Following the Success of Women's Ski Day
On March 21, the resort presented a cheque for $6,910, the proceeds from the highly successful Women's Ski Day event held on March 9. This year marked the second annual celebration of this event, hosted by Olympic gold medalist Kelsey Serwa in partnership with Elan Skis, and it highlights the resort's commitment to supporting the community and promoting women's empowerment through sports and outdoor activities.
Peter Plimmer, CEO of Big White Ski Resort Ltd., expressed his enthusiasm about the event's impact, stating, "It's truly heartwarming to see our community come together for such a meaningful cause. This event not only allows us to share the joy of skiing but also to make a real difference in the lives of those in need. We are honoured to support the Kelowna Women's Shelter and look forward to fostering our relationship with the shelter and the community."
"On behalf of the women and children we support throughout the Central Okanagan, we are very grateful for this generous donation," said Michelle Dickie, Executive Director of the Kelowna Women's Shelter. "It will have a huge impact on our programs and services and our ability to support everyone who is experiencing or has experienced domestic abuse. We could not do our work without the support of our community, and it is because of organizations like Big White Ski Resort that we can make a difference."
The event provided participants with an unforgettable day at Big White Ski Resort, featuring an array of activities, including skiing, exquisite dining options with champagne and oysters on ice, a very healthy & hearty lunch, and an all-inclusive après experience. A highlight of this year's event was the introduction of a raffle-style silent auction, which saw an overwhelming response and generosity from donors, surpassing all expectations.
Serwa, the event's host and one of Big White Ski Resort's ambassadors, shared her excitement about the day, particularly noting the special post-ski yoga session led by Taylor Morrice, owner of Our Yoga Space. "We were truly spoiled," Serwa commented, acknowledging the unparalleled support from sponsors and donors and a special thanks for their generous contributions.
The day concluded with a much-anticipated raffle draw, in which a lucky participant won a pair of Black Edition 94 RipSticks and bindings generously donated by Elan Skis.
Since 1980, the Kelowna Women’s Shelter has offered supportive programs and services to women and children in the Central Okanagan that are experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse. These programs include emergency transitional housing, a second stage program which includes housing and wraparound supports, the PEACE program which provides services to children and youth aged 3-18 who have experienced domestic abuse, outreach services for those still living in the domestic abuse environment or in the community, and 24hr support to all community members.
This contribution from Big White Ski Resort will greatly assist the Kelowna Women’s Shelter in its mission to help women and children live in safe and equitable communities free from abuse. Big White Ski Resort extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and donors for their support and generosity.
For more information on future events at Big White Ski Resort or how to support this cause, please visit bigwhite.com and kelownawomenshelter.com.