Kelowna Branch joins local charities under the Big Top!
December 20, 2016
For the third year in a row, Christmas has come early for the Kelowna branch of Raymond James. On November 25, the branch hosted another successful Christmas in November event to benefit both the Central Okanagan Food Bank and YMCA of Okanagan’s Strong Kids Campaign.
Held at the Laurel Packinghouse, this evening featured carnival themed fare, drinks and performances from local Kelowna talent. The highlight of Christmas in November was the $15,000 raised in the silent auction. Prizes, including spa packages, private aerial tours of the Okanagan, and even a trip to Hawaii, were generously donated by mutual fund companies, Raymond James employees, and clients.
“Both the YMCA and Food Bank support vulnerable populations in our communities, making it possible for everyone to access food, health and wellbeing,” says Rhonda Zakala, YMCA General Manager of Fund Development. “Charitable organizations rely on the generosity of corporate partners, like Raymond James, and others from our community to help us do the work we do. We can’t say enough about the impact these donor dollars will have on the lives of children and families in need this holiday season.”
The ambiance of the event was electric said Cheryl Penner, branch administrator of the Kelowna office. “It was heart-warming to see so many enthusiastic, generous people come together for causes we’re passionate about.”
Altogether, the evening raised over $30,000, and the Raymond James Canada Foundation donated an additional $10,000 to the cause. To date, Christmas in November has generated over $115,000 for local charities.
“Raymond James has created the new ‘must attend’ event in Kelowna in only three short years,” said Tammy Jackson, Special Events coordinator of the Central Okanagan Food Bank. “We can’t tell you how much we appreciate being included in Christmas in November – we are incredibly privileged.”
Our colleagues in Kelowna are another example of the admirable contributions of our Raymond James associates in the communities in which they live and work.
