Kelowna Hockey Festival (photo courtesy of the GSL Group)

By Liam Verster

Supporting YMCA programs

Kelowna Hockey Fest raised $20K for local children and youth in need

Nov 28, 2024 | 12:54 PM

The inaugural Kelowna Hockey Fest raised thousands of dollars for the YMCA of Southern Interior B.C.

The hockey festival, held at Prospera Place in downtown Kelowna on August 23, 2024, raised over $20,000, which will be used to support low-income children and youth in need in the region.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of Kelowna Hockey Fest and its supporters,” Tammie Watson, Vice President of Marketing and Philanthropy of the YMCA of Southern Interior B.C., said.

“The funds raised will make a profound impact on the lives of hundreds of local children and families, providing them with the essential resources and supports they need to thrive.“

The one-day hockey festival brought teams together to play at Prospera Place. Outside the arena, there was a kids’ zone, vendors, entertainment, and hockey-themed competitions.

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The event also featured a Pro Game with NGL stars, Kelowna Rockets alumni, and all-star coaches including Shea Weber, Jessica Campbell, Duncan Keith, Josh Gorges, and Brent Seabrook.

Fundraising efforts during the day included a 50/50 raffle and an auction for game-worn jerseys from the event’s notable coaches.

The money raised at the Kelowna Hockey Fest will support various YMCA programs including free and/or subsidized members to the YMCA for children and youth, free swimming lessons to Grade 3 students in Kelowna, and employment training to vulnerable youth. The funds will also be used to provide families with free access to resources such as the Young Parents Program, mental health supports, family support services, and drop-out prevention services.

The event was hosted by Kelowna High Performance (KHP) and the GSL Group.

“Kelowna Hockey Fest is about more than just hockey—it’s about celebrating our community, creating connections, and making a meaningful impact,” organizers at KHP and GSL Group said.

“We’re incredibly proud to have helped the YMCA raise over $20,000 this year, knowing these funds will help strengthen families and individuals across our city. Thank you to everyone who participated, cheered, and supported; together, we’ve proven how powerful our shared love for hockey can truly be.”