Fundraisers

Six of British Columbia’s most well-respected philanthropic organizations have come together to raise funds as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. They are:

Fighting Covid Together is an online charity auction event taking place on Saturday May 23 at 7:00 p.m.

The event brings together six charities—Sources Foundation, Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre Association, Variety – the Children’s Charity of BC, Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation, Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation and VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation—for one night united for one cause … to spread the word about what charities supporting frontline workers, volunteers and vulnerable community members are up against during the COVID-19 crisis.

The concept for Fighting COVID Together came about when Howard Blank (howardblanklive.com), known for mixing his love for philanthropy and his skill for hosting and auctioneering, wanted to do something to help all the charities he cares so much about. He turned to his friends at Able Auctions (ableauctions.ca) and event expert Tracey Wade along with Laura Ballance (lbmg.ca), and Rebecca Bollwitt (miss604.com) and soon Fighting COVID Together took shape.

Fighting COVID Together will be an upbeat and fast-paced online auction helping charities who need the public’s support right now. The format is simple and is based on Able Auctions’ proven track record in industrial auctioneering. Hosted by Howard Blank, the virtual event will consist of a live audio auction for each of the six charities involved where guests will be able to bid in real time on items upon viewing photos and descriptions.

There is no registration fee for guests and no costs for the six charities involved thanks to the generosity of Jeremy Dodd at Able Auctions, Rebecca Bollwitt, Howard Blank and Tracey Wade. COVID-19 has presented many challenges to charities but it is time for us to join together in support of local charities. 100 per cent of proceeds will go directly to the participating organizations.

“When Howard approached us a few weeks ago about participating, we were up to our necks problem-solving day by day how to continue delivering our essential social services to the most vulnerable members of community, while keeping our staff and volunteer teams safe and healthy. Through dedication, compassion and innovation, we have done that, and continue to be there for those that needs us. We are very excited to be part of this online auction and be counted with this esteemed group of wonderful charities,” said SOURCES CEO David Young.

“This event couldn’t happen at a better time. We had to cancel our 25th Anniversary Fundraising Gala that was set for April and postpone it to November. That is our largest fundraiser that brings in hundreds of thousands of dollars for our Food Banks, Women’s Place, Counselling Services, and other programs that depend heavily on community donations, and serve individuals and families of all ages and abilities throughout the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island and Northern British Columbia,” said Sources Foundation President Bruce Hayne.

“With some quick and hard work from my fellow board members, SOURCES staff, as well as incredible generosity from local businesses and community supporters, we pulled together six packages for this event which we hope audiences will bid on often and bid high,” Hayne said.

Michael Stuart, President of West Coast Golf Group and a former Sources Foundation director and gala chair, contributed the sixth package worth close to $9,000 in hopes that it will raise much-needed funds for SOURCES’ community programs.

“SOURCES will keep 100 per cent of the funds raised through the auction items they provide, with proceeds being invested in local programs and services focusing on areas of critical need. It is very nice to see us banding together and providing a united front to help those in need,” Stuart said.

“We hope you will sign up, tune in and bid next Saturday. Thank you for your support and stay well,” Young said.