Editor: On March 14, the community of Canmore and many friends from Banff, Lake Louise, Exshaw and Calgary came together to launch the inaugural VINEart Gala Auction, benefitting the Bow Valley Women’s Emergency Shelter.
On behalf of the women and children who use our services, our organizing committee and the team at the YWCA, we are sincerely grateful for all the support we received to create a memorable night that I’m sure will become an annual event.
VINEart provided a platform to build awareness about domestic violence and our local shelter program, raise much needed funds for our existing program and generate support for our five-year goal to secure suitable shelter and transitional housing facilities in Canmore.
I’m happy to report we succeeded beyond our expectations on all fronts. Thanks to our sponsors, donors, attendees, volunteers, staff and community friends who were extremely generous with their time, expertise, networks and financial support.
Thanks also to those who have offered their personal commitment to work with us to achieve our ambitious long-term goal. Family violence is a community problem and it is motivating to see community leaders and residents working toward a solution.
I’d also like to recognize honourary committee chair Lorinda Stewart, a Canmore resident who so courageously shared her personal experience of living through violence to her recovery, and her work to inform and lend hope to victims and supporters. We were thrilled to see Lorinda receive two standing ovations at VINEart.
I am continually inspired by the collective ability of the Bow Valley to rally forces for community needs and proud to be part of a movement that is committed to creating a safe and caring community for everyone.
Connie MacDonald, CEO
YWCA
