Save the date for YANA’s Big Love Benefit.
In its 26th year, the YANA Big Love Benefit will host a fabulous crowd of supporters, who come for the food, friends, fun and, most importantly, to be part of the giving that surrounds YANA in the Comox Valley.
Dinner by Tria Fine Catering and a silent auction are followed by a much anticipated photo presentation by McKinnon Photography, featuring a YANA family.
A raffle for WestJet tickets and an exciting live auction add to the fun as do some other surprise additions to this year’s gala.
As the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, the event plays an important role in funding YANA’s programs.
This year’s event will take place on Feb. 26 at the Florence Filberg Centre.
YANA executive director, Marcie Dumais, says the event is a huge undertaking.
“This special night is possible only through the amazing efforts of our volunteers and the generosity of our community, which is at the heart of who we are and what we are able to accomplish.”
An example of the commitment of YANA’s volunteers is Dave Stevens, who has been the evening’s auctioneer since its inception.
“I was approached by YANA founder, Sandra Williams, she had the idea of writing to celebrities for signed donations and auctioning them off. I immediately said ‘Let’s do it!’” remembers Stevens. “That was 26 years ago, the auction has changed and grown since then, I’d say it’s better than ever.”
“Dave leaves his winter retirement vacation early each year to fly back to the Comox Valley and be part of this event,” says YANA president Judy Cryer. “We are truly humbled by his commitment to YANA, and that of all our volunteers and donors who make this night possible.”
For his part, Stevens is happy to do it, “There’s a wonderful feeling in the room,” he says. “It really is filled with some very big love!”
YANA provides accommodation and funding to Comox Valley families who need to travel for the medical care of a child or pregnant mother. Last year, YANA was able to help 146 local children and their families.
To be part of the generosity that is required to host such an event, you can donate an item or service for the auction. Consider getting a group of colleagues, friends or teammates together to donate jointly. Or help cover event expenses by becoming a sponsor of the Big Love Benefit. Details on sponsorship opportunities are available upon request.
Interested in attending? Tickets go on sale Sunday, Jan. 24 at 9 a.m. and are sold online through yanacomoxvalley.com.
Tickets are $75 each.
Last year tickets sold out in five minutes, so mark your calendars and set your alarm clocks!