Record $500K Raised at Vernon Golf Tournament for Hospital

The 16th annual Charity Classic golf tournament, hosted by the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation, raised a remarkable $500,000 on August 24, 2023. This record-breaking achievement will provide essential life-saving equipment for the local hospital. The funds collected during the event surpassed last year’s total, marking consecutive years of outstanding community support.

Held at the scenic Predator Ridge Resort, the tournament featured a Vegas scramble format, complete with prizes and refreshments at each hole. Participants enjoyed a sunny day filled with camaraderie and competitive spirit. Kate McBrearty, executive director of the foundation, expressed her astonishment at the fundraising success. “We really never imagined we’d be here again,” she remarked, celebrating the community’s unwavering generosity.

The event was bolstered by the backing of numerous sponsors, including the Paul Docksteader Foundation and over 30 local businesses. Each contributor played a vital role in ensuring the tournament’s success. The evening program also featured a special Fund-A-Need segment, allowing attendees to directly contribute to purchasing medical equipment for Vernon Jubilee Hospital.

McBrearty highlighted the positive energy in the auction room, stating, “It was just incredible to be in that room and be surrounded by such a feeling of positive energy, of ‘let’s get this done.’” The sense of community was palpable, with participants all committed to enhancing healthcare services in the North Okanagan.

Organizing such an impactful event requires significant volunteer support. An army of dedicated individuals, from planning committee members to on-site helpers, ensured everything ran smoothly. Notably, members of the UBC Okanagan golf team contributed by showcasing their skills on the course, participating in a ‘Hit by a Pro’ initiative that provided a unique experience for tournament players.

This year’s fundraising efforts are set to purchase two Belmont Rapid Infusers, which are crucial for stabilizing patients by delivering warmed fluids at high flow rates—up to 750 ml per minute. The rapid delivery of blood and fluids can significantly improve patient outcomes, highlighting the importance of the funds raised.

In addition to the Rapid Infusers, the tournament will also support the acquisition of urgently needed medical devices, including external pacemakers and vital signs monitoring machines. These purchases are essential for improving patient care at the hospital.

Reflecting on the day, McBrearty noted, “The sun was shining, people were smiling and laughing from the moment they arrived, and there was such a wonderful feeling of community.” With the continued support of the Vernon community, the Charity Classic promises to remain a significant event in the calendar, reinforcing its role in transforming healthcare in the region.