Each January, Special Olympics Powell River organizes its annual Christmas tree mulch fundraiser.
This is one of the organization’s major fundraisers of the year and has been an annual event for more than 15 years, explains Jackie Milsom, the local Special Olympics coordinator.
“We see fewer trees each year, but it’s still a lucrative fundraiser for us due to everyone’s generosity,” says Milsom. “We look forward to this fundraiser each year.”
This year, the tree mulch will be held on Sunday, January 2. For a suggested minimum donation of $5, trees can be dropped off between 10 am and 1 pm in the parking lot just below Mother Nature. For those who prefer curbside pickup, tags can be purchased at Mother Nature, 7-Eleven, or Top Shelf Feeds prior to January 2.
Trees should be easily visible and on the curb by 8 am on the day of pickup. Local CUPE members volunteer their time for the curbside pickups.
The qathet region has about 50 athletes in the Special Olympics programs, ranging in age from 10 to 80. Funds raised are used to purchase equipment for the athletes and facility rentals. Bowling is the organization’s most popular program since it is adaptable for any age or ability.
“We try to cover all the expenses so our athletes, who are often on a fixed income, can participate,” explains Milsom. “We recently just purchased new helmets and brooms for our curling program.”
Special Olympics programs have been directly impacted by COVID-19, but Milsom is hopeful that they can offer more programs in 2022.
“Last year, we were only able to run the golf program because it’s outside, but we are slowly opening up,” says Milsom. “Swimming will be available in the new year for their athletes and hopefully bocce in the spring.
“We also have a couple of athletes travelling to Vancouver Island for composite floor hockey.”
Many of the organization’s other fundraisers have had to be cancelled or postponed because of COVID-19, so it relies heavily on the fundraisers that are able to run.
In addition to the tree mulch, there is an ongoing bottle drive. Bottles can be dropped off at 4465 Manson Avenue. There is a sign showing where to leave the donations and then volunteers take care of the rest.
“Our athletes have really been missing their programs,” says Milsom. “It gives them social opportunities and is beneficial to their mental and physical health.”
The organization does its best not to turn any participants away but its capabilities are dependent on the number of volunteers they have for each program.
Anyone interested in volunteering, either with fundraising or programming, can contact Milsom by email at [email protected].
