Parade in need of sponsors

It may only be September, but the Bridge Youth and Family Services is already looking ahead to the 2024 holiday season.

The non-profits has announced the return of Parade with a Purpose.

What started four years ago with just three holiday floats in Kettle Valley has transformed into an annual tradition that not only spreads holiday cheer but also supports an incredible cause, with a large number of light-up floats now filling the streets of Kelowna each holiday season.

With the parade less than three months away, founders Pam Turgeon and Shadia Doty are calling on local businesses, organizations and community leaders to join the fun this year and to help raise money for a good cause.

With their love for community and holiday spirit, Turgeon and Doty and all of last year's involved businesses and organizations helped raise $118,000 for the Bridge Youth and Family Services.

This year their mission is to raise $250,000, with funds going to support essential services for the Youth and Recovery House at The Bridge, which is expected to open in 2026.

"Your sponsorship or float entry will directly impact the lives of youth in need — making this an opportunity to truly make a difference," The Bridge said in a statement.

The Stober Foundation will match all donations made to the parade, doubling the impact of every dollar raised

“This is an amazing opportunity for businesses to promote themselves while giving back to the community. We’ve had thousands of people attend in Kettle Valley, but with the move to downtown, we expect even more! This is a must-attend event for Kelowna," said Turgeon.

There are sponsorship packages available for all levels, ranging from $1,000 to $25,000.

Sponsors will receive incredible visibility in front of thousands of attendees and the chance to align their brand with a heartwarming cause that helps the most vulnerable youth in the community.

For more information on sponsorship packages and float entries, you can reach out to the following people:

• Pam Turgeon: 780-233-9640
• Shadia Doty: 250-575-5096
• Kelly Paley: 250-763-0456

Donations to the parade can also be made online here.