Occupying a small space on the upper floor of Filberg Lodge, the Filberg Heritage Lodge Gift Shop has grown from a startup store in spring 2011 to become the second-largest fundraiser for the association.
"It's a very pleasant way for people to shop for a gift or get a momento from their trip to the lodge or park," explained Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park Association (FHLPA) chair Mo MacKendrick.
MacKendrick explained the shop began in May 2011 and began accepting donations of collectibles, antiques and fair trade and locally produced items for sale.
In the past year, the shop generated $22,000, second only to the annual Filberg Festival on the BC Day long weekend.
MacKendrick said the shop, which, like FHLPA is completely volunteer-run, has become a "very tangible source of funding" for the association, and helps to contribute to the overall park as a "real little gem in the Comox Valley."
The shop accepts donations from indivuals, families or organizations.
MacKendrick added in the past year, volunteers contributed to more than 12,000 hours in the lodge, including the gift shop.
Looking ahead, MacKendrick explained the park continues to be a very popular destination, and offers a variety of different options for visitors all year round.
In the winter, the lodge can host winter weddings, and this March, MacKendrick said the association is looking at hosting a murder mystery event.
The gift shop is closed for the winter, but will reopen after the Easter weekend. For more information on the shop, lodge and park, or to donate items to the gift store, visit www.filberg.com, call 250-339-2715 or e-mail lodge@filberg.com
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