NONA building in downtown Vernon is going to get lit-up for the holidays. (Photo credit: NONA)

By Pete McIntyre

Lights for kids

NONA fundraiser will light up some smiles

Nov 23, 2021 | 2:30 PM

The North Okanagan Neurological Association’s (NONA) buildings in downtown Vernon are going to be a sight to see over the holiday season.

The child development centre is launching a new annual fundraiser called NONA Lights for Kids in partnership with the John Christmas (local realtor) Light Tour.

From December 4 to 31, NONA’s buildings at 2802 34th Street will be decked out for Christmas. The community can view the lights and decor, designed by local artist and long-time NONA supporter, Nancy Wilde, every day from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

With a large group of volunteers, NONA’s playground will be transformed into a reindeer park, the large glass meeting room overlooking the parking lot will be Santa’s new workshop and there will be many lights and twinkles all around.

‘’We are excited to join the John Christmas Light Tour and add-on to this community event,” said Helen Armstrong, Executive Director at NONA. “There are so many beautifully decorated homes in Vernon that participate in this event, and NONA is looking forward to adding on to this and making something special for the children in our community.”

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Armstrong said the COVID-19 pandemic has made a huge impact on the charity, and NONA is immensely grateful for the support it has received from the government during the pandemic, without which, NONA’s doors would not be open today.

However, this support only takes NONA so far and they need funding from the community to continue to provide their services to children with special needs.

NONA’s wish list has been incorporated into the design, which includes updated technology and pediatric equipment, which are not covered by general funding.

The services provided at NONA include speech therapy, infant development, autism services and many more, and over 800 children and families receive services from the association each year.

Donations can be made at www.nona-cdc.com

NONA will also be collecting cash donations at a Fill The Stockings family event on Saturday, Dec. 18 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 2802 34th Street.

For more information, contact event coordinator Gina Watson: gina.watson@woodentulip.ca

“The annual John Christmas Light Tour has been enjoyed by many families in our community over the past few years. Thank you to all the people who put up Christmas displays for their time and willingness to be a part of this event,” said John Christmas, realtor with Royal LaPage Downtown Realty. “NONA is an amazing organization, and I am grateful the light tour will help support their valuable programs.”

NONA is thanking its sponsors and supporters: John Christmas and Heather Angel with Royal LaPage Downtown Realty, Tolko Industries, Lake City Casinos Vernon, RE Postill & Son, Agar Schneider & Lett, Bannisters Honda, Kal Tire, Bannisters GM, Armstrong Co-op, Farrer Rentals, Central Animal Hospital, Secret Garden Daycare, Latitude Financial Services Inc. The Home Depot, Vernon Dodge Jeep, Ukrainetz Workplace Law Group, Westland Insurance, Watkin Motors, 107.5 Beach Radio and 105.7 Pure Country.

by Pete McIntyre

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