With heartfelt appreciation, we are thrilled to share with you 12 quick highlights of 2023.
Each made possible by your dedication and belief in our mission.
As we reflect on the incredible journey of 2023, we are filled with gratitude for the consistent support and generosity that our esteemed donors have shown us. Each year seems to pass in the blink of an eye, yet the impact of your contributions resonates deeply within our community.
GAMECHANGERS YOUTH-AT-RISK INITIATIVE
Together, we raised over $1million, empowering our youth to thrive and succeed against all odds.
ENTREPRENEURS OF OPTIONS
In April 2023, we brought together a group of ambitious entrepreneurs to join forces on our next housing fundraising project. The Entrepreneurs of Options initiative commenced with a fundraising event held at the home of Rick and Azra Mann, attended by numerous board members and supporters.
DONOR WALL SIGNAGE
Our vision for recognition and appreciation takes shape with the design of our donor wall at Habitat@81st.
TIM HORTONS' SMILE COOKIE CAMPAIGNE
Thanks to your support, we received $7,744, making smiles contagious in our community. Additionally big thanks to Greg McAuley and his company, McAuley Ventures Ltd. for your support.
RUN SURREY RUN
Thanks to the initiative of Gurjinder Burji
and the generosity of friends like you, over $1,000
was raised towards our Women of Options Campaigns.
GOLF TOURNAMENTS
We participated in two golf tournaments last year: BC Building Products Golf Tournament in Surrey, and Big Red Mental Health Golf Tournament in Chilliwack. With Bianca & Dave Heer, and Julia Leith & Brandon Hobbs by our side, we conquered the greens, raising a total of $21,500 in support of the vital work at Options.
DIAPER DRIVE
Coldwell Banker Marquise Realty's initiative showered us with essentials, ensuring comfort and care for families in need.
We received approximately 80 boxes of diapers, formula and wipes, which were distributed to our Transition Houses
for women and their families fleeing violence
and to other programs, where needed.
FRASER VALLEY REALTORS CHARITABLE FOUNDATION (FVRCF)
A $10,000 cheque and a memorable tour marked a profound partnership for youth programs thanks to our friends at FVRCF!
SENSORY ROOM FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN
We raised $11,700 in just two days for the Sensory Room at Habitat@81st, designed for children with diverse needs. The Royal Bank Community Foundation contributed $10,150, a private donor added $1,550 and VanCity donated $1,500. Together, we raised $14,750 for this important space.
DIWALI EVENT
At the event, eight members of Options were present to witness our organization being honoured as the recipient of funds raised by the Feminine Fellowship Outreach Society. We extend our sincere gratitude to Rasinder Kaur, and Entrepreneur of Options, for her invaluable support.
MUSIC COMMITTEE
AND EOs GET-TOGETHER
In June, we hosted a special gathering for our music committee and the Entrepreneurs of Options. As we look ahead, we're excited to announce our plans for a captivating live music gala fundraiser scheduled for September 2024.
We deeply value the exceptional talent and dedication of our volunteers, whose contributions are instrumental in shaping this upcoming event. Your commitment to our cause truly sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Left to right. Back row: Anupum Gill, Michelle Hansen, Ranj Singh, Michael Grunewaldt, Ginny Hasselfield, Rick Mann, Michael Kendler, Rochelle Prasad, Tim Beachy and Kamal Sharma,
Front row: Nick Chowlia, Milan Mann, Rebecca Darnell, Mandy Shergill, Jen Temple, Tammy Dyer, Heather Lynch Leticial Fraga, Christine Mohr, kamaljit Lehal, Amanda Bratch and Shashi Sharma
HABITAT@81ST SOFT OPENING
On December 15, 2023, we inaugurated Habitat@o81st with a soft opening as tenants began moving in. Recognizing their immediate needs, we swiftly organized a campaign for gift cards and furniture.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors, including various foundations and individuals we received multiple donations. Within weeks, essential items like mattresses, dining tables, baby cribs, toys, kitchen supplies, bedding and clothing poured in, addressing our tenants' urgent needs.
These moments of triumph and unity remind us of the impact we an achieve when we come together with purpose and compassion. Looking forward to what we can do together for our community in 2024!
With warm regards,
Christine Mohr
Chief Executive Officer
Options Community Services