In the wake of the June flood event, the Fairmont Banff Springs has joined forces and with the NHL’s New York Rangers to raise much needed dollars in support of the Rotary Club of Canmore’s Flood Relief Fund and The Banff Community Foundation.
Funds raised at the Fairmont Banff Springs & New York Rangers Golf Invitational on Sept. 19 will rejuvenate the mountain communities where many Albertans and other Canadians bring mountain adventure dreams to life.
“Countless businesses, colleagues, families and friends were affected by the damage caused from this monumental act of nature,” said David Roberts, regional vice-president and general manager of the Fairmont Banff Springs.
“What was left behind Mother Nature’s wrath is unlike anything we have seen in the Bow Valley and, hopefully, will not see again. We are extremely honoured to have the New York Rangers organization partner with the hotel to help bring much needed financial aid to the Bow Valley. Hosting this fundraiser is one way we can give back and, hopefully, raise not only dollars, but lift spirits as our communities continue to rebuild.”
Glen Sather, president and general manager of the Rangers, said “Being from Alberta and having spent so much time in the Bow Valley, we are excited to join the Fairmont Banff Springs in this charitable endeavour, to aid the many who have been affected by this act of nature.”
“New Yorkers also went through a trying time this past year with the aftermath of hurricane Sandy, and we understand first-hand the importance of assistance from those in the community and beyond. Our players are thrilled to be able to assist in this very worthy effort and look forward to a great day for everyone.”
Registration for the invitational is open and available by calling 403-760-6002. Corporations can register foursomes for $2,500 (tax receipt will be issued for $2,040 and includes three playing tickets plus one celebrity) or individuals can register for $500 per person (tax receipt will be issued for $385). Proceeds raised at the event will be donated to the Rotary Club of Canmore in support of the Flood Relief Fund and the Banff Community Foundation. Sponsorship packages are also available with aid going to the above noted charitable organizations.
Inspired by Ann and Glen Sather and Roberts, the Banff Community Foundation has established a second fund called “After the Flood – Matters of the Heart” with a lead gift from its unrestricted fund.
“This second, ‘After the Flood’ fund,” said Chair Carsten Sorensen, “will help individuals deal with the personal side of life. Following any loss or crisis, we go through an emotional process. Individuals adjust to loss in different ways, and we anticipate that once September gets here and school starts, and the routine of ‘life after the flood’ is re-established, the process of recovery will continue. For some, this may be a long and difficult personal journey.
“As a smart and caring community, we want to be ready to help our frontline agencies. We know that households, families, children, single parents, seniors and employers have been deeply affected by recent events. In the days ahead, we anticipate an increased demand for personal support and services as people learn to cope with their new realities.”
“As the foundation works towards our vision of ‘smarter and more caring’ we will continue to forge stronger links with our neighbours,” said Executive Director Lorraine Widmer-Carson. “The flood has provided ample evidence of our Bow Valley spirit of neighbour helping neighbour. This does not end just because the waters have receded.
“Many residents of Canmore work in Banff. Some residents of Canmore work in Exshaw. Children in Morley go to school in Exshaw and have pen pals in Banff. Schools, municipalities, hotels, The Banff Centre, the Fairmont Banff Springs, Parks Canada – our staff and employers are all tightly inter-connected.
“This second ‘After the Flood’ fund will support emotional health and wellness programs, in a smart and caring manner. We understand that community resilience begins when individuals find support at a personal level.”
