King Charles Coronation Medal winner, Sophia Vaillant, has found a new way to give back to the Lake Trail Community Education Society (LTCES). She has donated two tickets to Taylor Swift’s Eras tour in Vancouver for this December for a raffle to raise money for LTCES.
“The whole reason Taylor went with the lottery system for tickets in the first place is that she wanted as many true fans to get to attend the concert,” Vaillant says, “I couldn’t stomach selling them for what they are going for, and I couldn’t choose two people of the 60 friends who reached out.”
Vaillant came up with the idea of a raffle after volunteering with LTCES this summer.
“I started middle school as a timid, anxious kid who really struggled in school. I know all my success has come from the support and mentorship that came from the very kind of village LTCES is building at Lake Trail Community School,” said Vaillant.
In addition to winning the King Charles Coronation Medal, Vaillant was also awarded the TD scholarship for leadership. She is impressed by the efforts at LTCES to offer free programs, community events, a community garden, and their free salad bar served in two schools. She believes Swift would approve of her choice.
“We are thrilled by the offer,” said Anna Rambow, executive director of LTCES. “Not just the raffle, but the way Sophia wants to use this opportunity to grow connections in the community.”
Vaillant has also pitched a family-friendly friendship bracelet-making fundraiser on Nov. 13 so Swifties can come together and celebrate locally. Plans are underway by Swifties from the school who are excited to celebrate the Eras Tour together. So far, Taylor’s Chai sugar cookies, trivia, and possibly karaoke are on the list.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the community together around a common interest,” Vaillant said. “I know a lot of people don’t understand why we all appreciate Taylor Swift so much, but those of us who see her incredible female leadership can’t all be wrong. We are witnessing something they are studying in universities and will continue to for years to come.”
"We are incredibly grateful for this amazing gift, especially during a time of rising costs and health challenges within our staff and volunteer community,” said Rambow. "The fundraiser proceeds will allow us to move forward with increased support for our community!"
LTCES is hoping to raise 20,000 with the raffle and party. Excitement is in the air as the staff and volunteers prepare for what promises to be the most fun fundraiser yet.
For more information, and to buy tickets to either the raffle or the party, visit www.LTCES.ca
