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activities Guide
OK
AN
AG
AN 2020
CAPITAL newswww.kelownacapnews.com
WESTKNEWS .COM
Holiday activities Guide: activities and stories about our community tHis Festive season
community act iv it ies | creat inG new tradit ions | ways to Give
2 2020 Holiday activities Guide
70th AnniversAry stAy-At-home GAlA thursdAy, november 19, 6:00pm - 9:00pmGather together safely, to celebrate & be inspired by seven decades in our valley. Our goal: to raise $70,000 for vital local programs that help our communities thrive, and support our most vulnerable neighbours. Join us from anywhere for a virtual evening of music & laughs, food & drink, inspiration and Local Love! Buy a Gala ticket, bid on the auction or simply donate. You will make a difference. $27 and up for Gala tickets. Donate what you can. Jude Brunt, [email protected], 250-860-2356, www.trellis.org/locallove70.
12th AnnuAl ChristmAs extrAvAGAnzA sAturdAy, november 21, 9:00Am - 3:00pmOur Covid version this year will be staying within our provincial guidelines, but inside you will find 23 hand picked local exhibitors with a wide range of items for your gift giving, self pampering, home decor needs Support Local Shop Unique-Masks Required. FREE, but cash donations will be accepted for the Kelowna Food Bank. Rutland Centennial Hall, 215 Shepherd Road, Kelowna. Michelle Knuttila, [email protected], 250-868-1575, https://www.facebook.com/events/423435841987538.* We will be much smaller this year to keep our amazing exhibitors and our wonderful customers safe. Masks are required to be worn by all, Hand Sanitizer upon entry/exit, Social Distancing practiced by all, limited amount of touch spots to be cleaned regularly throughout the day. Basically what has become our new normal these days. You will be expected to line up to come in to stay within our provincial guidelines
GinGerbreAd house photo Contest mondAy, november 30Habitat for Humanity is hosting its 1st Annual Virtual Gingerbread House photo contest. Purchase a Gingerbread House Kit from Habitat for Humanity online or in one of the Restores and submit a photo of your Gingerbread House by November 30th to enter. PRIZES for 1st, 2nd or 3rd and a Peoples Choice Award chosen by the public! Go to habitatforhumanityokanagan.ca for more information. Virtual, habitatforhumanityokangan.ca. Kathleen Lemeiux, [email protected], 778-755-4346.
ChristmAs in the Country eAst KelownA mArKet sundAys, november 15 - deCember 13, 10:00Am - 3:00pmTake a short drive to the beautiful countryside of East Kelowna and you’ll quickly get in the spirit of the holiday season with our country community market, hosting some of the finest local food vendors, artisans and crafters. Even through these times and taking all safety precautions, we can still make your holiday shopping meaningful and unique. Vendors will be located outside and indoors. Each week new vendors will be showcasing their creations. We are always in the giving spirit and will have a variety of beautiful give away baskets and door prizes. Free Admission. East Kelowna Hall, 2704 East Kelowna Road, Kelowna. Kathy Sawchuk, [email protected], 250-899-3960, www.eastkelownamarket.net.* During our markets you will be requested to hand sanitize with Forbidden Spirits hand sanitizer or bring your own, mask wearing encouraged and necessary if in spaces that don’t permit social distancing. Do not enter market if unwell, social distancing, one way in and exit. Directional Arrows and each vendor has sanitizer to spray customers hands prior to touching product. COVID signage displayed through out the market. No more than 20 people can enter into the market at any given time. Washroom available for 1 person at a time and will be sanitized every half hour.
very year KCR Community Resources partners with the Kelowna Capital News to produce a guide for local Holiday
events and activities that help us celebrate together as a community and support many of the non-profit organizations that do such incredible work throughout the year. As we all know, 2020 isn’t like other years. So many of the fundraising events, holiday-themed concerts and dinners, have been cancelled and others are shifting to new formats and new ways of running their events. When evaluating if we should proceed with publishing the Guide this year, we felt very strongly that we
absolutely needed to! This year especially it is important to focus on what we do have, what is happening in our community and to actively look for new traditions to start. Plus, we were excited about the opportunity to play with the format of the Guide a little bit. In the Guide you will find a list of fun, holiday adventures to take part in. You will also find some incredible stories about people and organizations in our community that are doing their best to make the world a better place. We hope you enjoy the stories and that you are inspired to share your gifts and to create new traditions.
Welcome to the Holiday Activities GuideE
2020 Holiday activities Guide 3
Weekly Pause: Music & Relaxation Wednesdays, noveMbeR 18 - deceMbeR 16, 5:30PM - 6:30PMAt times life can feel stressful and overwhelming. Experiencing relaxation can help manage those feelings - In this group, there will be space for weekly check-ins, creative relaxation experiences for both your body and mind and a guided musical relaxation provided by professionals. No musical experience is required. Please bring a yoga mat, blanket, or pillow to use during the session. Drop-ins are also welcome. Limited space. Please note that masks are required while in session. $10 per class. Rotary Centre for the Arts - Sun FM Room, 421 Cawston Avenue, Kelowna. Kayla Turnbull, [email protected], 250-717-5304, https://rotarycentreforthearts.com/events/event/80602.* Class sizes are limited and socially distanced as well as masks are mandatory for this event. Masks are availale by $2 donations at the ticket office.
coMe togetheR: Music & Mental Wellness Wednesdays, noveMbeR 18 - deceMbeR 16, 7:00PM - 8:00PMIn this safe space, music therapy & mental wellness create community & support systems for holistic health. Whether you are experiencing mental health challenges yourself or supporting someone you love, everyone is welcome. Each week will focus on a mental wellness experience to express yourself, feel empowered, and connect. No musical experience is required. (19+). Drop-ins are also welcome. Limited space. Please note that masks are required while in session. $10. Rotary Centre for the Arts, 421 Cawston Avenue, Kelowna. Kayla Turnbull, [email protected], 250-717-5304, https://rotarycentreforthearts.com/events/event/80802.* Limited Class sizes, socially distanced space and masks required.
the local box by cRaft cultuReThe Local Box was launched by Craft Culture Events response to the COVID-19 pandemic, after all large craft and artisan markets were forced to cancel. Each Local Box is filled with a curated selection of products created by local vendors. Customers can pick up locally in Kelowna or Penticton, or have it shipped across Canada. No subscription required! The Local Box is making gift giving easy by offering 3 specialty boxes for the Holidays - The Christmas Essentials Box, The Box for Her, and the Box for Him. Order online at www.local-box.ca! www.local-box.ca.* Seasonal Markets are not permitted under the current Provincial Health Orders, so we are bringing the market experience directly to your door with The Local Box!
hoMes foR the holidays satuRday, noveMbeR 28, 6:45PM - 8:30PMHomes for the Holidays will be going virtual for 2020, featuring five homes, and 7 recorded segments sharing holiday ideas and tips from local experts in between the home tours. Viewers can participate remotely from home and safely share the event experience with family and friends on their phone, laptop, or smart TV. Our home owners are: Linda Stober, Jillian Harris, Jessalyn Broadfoot, Kim Andrei, Janet and Andreas Kluftinger. $25. Virtual Event, https://hospicecoha.org/special-events/homes-for-the-holidays. Eva Stoffman, [email protected], 250-763-5511.* This will be a virtual event, where attendees participate from the comfort and safety of their own homes.
holiday aRtist alley satuRday, noveMbeR 28, 12:00PM - 5:30PMCome for the wine, stay for the art! Fulfill your Holiday shopping this season by supporting local artisans. Featuring Curly Frog Farm, Follow the Sun Co, Nancy Blokland Pottery, Truffles Chocolate Café, and Venus Rising by Debra Martin. The View Winery & Vineyard, #1-2287 Ward Road, Kelowna. Cassandra, [email protected], 250-860-0742, www.theviewwinery.com/events/holiday-artist-alley.* Physical distancing, plexi-glass, one-way traffic, masks, hand sanitizer, reservations
online bRidge lessons staRting tuesday, noveMbeR 17, 7:00PM - 9:00PMCooped up, bored, wanting to expand your mind & meet new friends. Online bridge is your answer. I am a certified ACBL online bridge teacher who has been teaching for the past 7 years and I rate in the top 6% of ACBL bridge players in NA. I was teaching at the Parkinson Senior Centre and the Let’s Play Bridge Club in Kelowna until Covid. I teach beginners as well as intermediate players. Contact me for current and future lessons. $75 - 8 Lessons. Diana Knowles, [email protected], 250-491-4704.* Online no needed procedures
holiday MaRket at gRizzli WineRy satuRday, noveMbeR 28-29, 11:00aM - 4:00PM, RsvP RequiRedGrizzli Winery is excited to once again offer the community a Holiday Market in West Kelowna! Join us at Grizzli Winery for a festive weekend of Christmas shopping, wine tastings, live music and holiday floral workshops! Enjoy live holiday music from The Double Sharp Duet, and food from Beaver Tails Food Truck! This year we are proud to support the CMHA and will be accepting donations. Grizzli Winery, 2550 Boucherie Road, West Kelowna. Breanna Nathorst, [email protected], 250-769-6789, http://grizzliwinery.com.* Grizzli Winery is very mindful of COVID-19 and is continuously following Public Health Orders. Hand sanitizers will be placed throughout the event and guests are required to wear masks. While our area is large, we have limited the market to 50 guests in the tasting room at a time. Guests are asked to remain in their bubbles and to safely distance themselves from other groups.
heRe We go a-caRolling Chordial Invitation Barbershop chorus offers drop-in carolling to any business or residence in Kelowna during the 2020 Christmas Season. Donations will be shared with the Salvation Army Christmas Food Basket. A donation gets you 3 carols sung in your rotunda or other convenient location. Ted Bajer, 250-764-7624. * Social distancing will be observed
4 2020 Holiday activities Guide
A CHRISTMAS MESSAGE ... Your neighbours at Redeemer Lutheran Church wish you a very blessed Christmas. May these blessings include peace in your heart, the beauty of hope, the spirit of love and the gift of faith. Because God, in His love, gave us His Son, we live in hope in this Covid-19 world. Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3637 Brown Road, West Kelowna. 250-768-9393.* Masks and hand sanitizers are provided. Max 30 people allowed inside the space. Assigned spacing for each individual.
SToRy WAlk In THE pARkS novEMbER 16-22The Central Okanagan Early Years Partnership (COEYP) has organized a Story Walk during the week of November 16-22. 10 different books have been provided (with permission from the authors and publishers) and will be displayed at 10 different parks. 1 copy of each of the 10 stories displayed will be given away after the Story Walk week has finished. You can enter by taking a photo of your family at any of the story walk locations and uploading it to social media with the hashtag #COStoryWalk – enter every time you visit. Visit a park near you during the week of National Child Day for an immersive, family-friendly, story experience! Reiswig Regional Park, Lambly Park, Ben Lee Park, Loseth Park, Brandts Creek Linear Park, Cameron Park, Duggan Park, George Pringle Elementary, Pine Stadium Field, Rutland Lions Park. Childhood Connections, 250-762-3536, https://childhoodconnections.ca/central-okanagan-early-years-partnership/story-walk.* Social distancing
THE 2020 vIRTuAl FAT CAT CHIldREn’S FESTIvAl novEMbER 23 - 25, 2020The Children’s Festival Society of Kelowna is excited to announce our FIRST-EVER Virtual Children’s Festival! Join in the excitement of celebrating 30 years of festival fun right from the comfort of your own home or classroom. Get ready for a 3-day fun-filled festival for the whole family! Did we mention it’s also completely FREE? Enjoy 3 days of LIVE shows, workshops, and performances from talented local artists, educators, and cultural groups that will not only inspire and uplift, but will also expand your connections within our beautiful Okanagan community. Even though it’s been tough not being able to gather in person this year, we all agree it’s so important to stay connected to our community now more than ever before. So what better way to do that than coming together virtually to celebrate all things local! A must-see experience you don’t want to miss. Get ready to enjoy all the fun Fat Cat Children’s Festival 2020 has in store! Cynthia, [email protected], https://trellis.org/the-2020-virtual-fat-cat-childrens-festival.* This event is held online
undER 100 FRonT oF THE lInE & ExHIbITIon FRIdAy, novEMbER 27, 5:30pM - 9:55pMUnder 100 Front of the Line is an exclusive invitation to experience the Lake Country Art Gallery’s annual fundraising art sale before the official opening day on November 28. You will be among the first to see, select and purchase your favourite works of art. See the event link for ticket details. The Exhibition will open to the public everyday from Nov 28 to Dec 21, between 9 am - 3:pm. Over 6 artists with 600 works are accepted to show this year, and all deliveries will be organized on a strict schedule over 4 days. See the event link for ticket details. Lake Country Art Gallery, 10356 Bottom Wood Lake Road, Lake Country. [email protected], 250-766-1299, www.facebook.com/events/851405138956684.* All access to the gallery will be controlled and monitored to keep visitor numbers within safe limits for the size of our spaces.
lIGHT IT up! MATCHInG FundS Food SECuRITy CAMpAIGn FRIdAy, novEMbER 27 - dECEMbER 16Help Hands in Service light up the Christmas tree & deliver food security! Dollar for Dollar Matching Funds Campaign! Your donations will deliver Christmas & monthly hampers, 500 Living Salads- Portable Community Gardens, and locally grown fresh produce all growing season! Help deliver hope & food security to those in need this Holiday Season! Every $25 donation enters you to win a bottle of wine (red or white). Hands in Service, [email protected], 250-861-5465, www.handsinservice.ca/light-it-up.* Online Only!
noRTH pInE - WATERColouRS And dRAWInGS by THE GRoup oF SEvEn FRoM THE MCMICHAEl CAnAdIAn ART CollECTIon oCTobER 24 - MARCH 7, 2021Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Group of Seven, this exhibition offers audiences a seldom seen side of Canadian art history. It presents 66 of the Group’s largely unknown works, such as a portfolio of lithographs that were published in 1925 by Rous & Mann, a firm at which several of the members had worked. This exhibition runs until Mar 7, 2021. $5. Free on Thursdays. Kelowna Art Gallery, 1315 Water Street, Kelowna. [email protected], 250.762.2226, https://kelownaartgallery.com/northern-pine/.* Self-Screening is required before visiting the gallery. Mask required. Physical distancing. Hand sanitizers are provided. Gallery will frequently sanitize the high traffic areas.
WInTER’S nIGHT lAnTERn TouR SATuRdAy, dECEMbER 5, 4:00pM - 8:00pM, SundAy, dECEMbER 6, 10:00AM - 12:00pMHold your lantern high and shine a light on a festive history mystery. On your journey, you’ll meet a cast of characters that bring the past to life, and take home tales and memories that last a lifetime. Merry surprises await you on this special, family-friendly mystery tour! $25 suggested donation per group. Okanagan Heritage Museum, 470 Queensway Avenue. Jen, [email protected], 250-868-4836, KelownaMuseums.ca/2020-Winter-Lantern-Tour.* For our COVID-19 policies and procedures, please visit: https://www.kelownamuseums.ca/welcome-back/
IT’S A WondERFul lIFE: A lIvE RAdIo plAy by JoE lAndRy THuRSdAy, dECEMbER 10, 7:00pM This beloved holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers his life one fateful Christmas Eve with the help of an unlikely angel. Directed by Josie Morrow. The show runs from Dec 10 - 13. $30. The Mary Irwin Theater at the Rotary Centre for the Arts, 421 Cawston Avenue, Kelowna. [email protected], 250.717.5304, https://rotarycentreforthearts.com/events/event/82402/.* Ticket holders will be staggered. Masks required inside the theater. Social distancing must be followed.
2020 Holiday activities Guide 5
Fireside Holiday Jazz w/ anna Jacyszyn saturday, december 12, 5:00pm - 7:00pmJoin us at the Grizzli Winery fireside and listen to the stunning Anna Jacyszyn, local jazz singer, perform her holiday repertoire. Get ready for some lush vocals and songs that will get you in the Holiday spirit. Enjoy the ambience of our redesigned fireside lounge with Mulled wine and festive pairings or a flight of hand-selected wines as you peruse the lounge and wine shop inspired by Okanagan artists and artisans. $10. Grizzli Winery, 2550 Boucherie Road, West Kelowna. Breanna Nathorst, [email protected], 250-769-6789, www.Grizzliwinery.com.* Grizzli Winery is very mindful of COVID-19 and is continuously following Public Health Orders. Hand sanitizers will be placed throughout the event and guests are encouraged to wear masks. While our area is large, we have limited tickets to 50 guests. Guests are asked to remain in their bubbles and to safely distance themselves from other groups.
an actors studio Holiday spectacular december 2-13, 7:30pm - 10:00pmBlending familiar songs and recordings with moments from television, movies and radio that have become part of our collective memories, the sounds, sights and themes that defined the holiday season for a century. With Dinner from $96, Show Only from $59, Matinee with Dessert from $64 | All prices PLUS taxes and fees. Kelowna Actors Studio, 1379 Ellis Street, Kelowna. [email protected], 250-862-2867, https://kelownatickets.com/online/article/HolidaySpectacular.* http://kelownaactorsstudio.com/online/article/COVIDPerformances
december Keep connected calendartuesdays & tHursdays, december 1-22,
1:00pm - 2:00pmLake Country Seniors, come and join us on zoom for our Keep Connected Program, every Tuesday and Thursday at 1:00pm. These programs are both fun and informative and to offer support to our Lake Country Seniors, providing opportunities to join together as a group in on the online platform “ZOOM”! Contact for the Zoom invite. Kali Smith, [email protected], 250-306-2540, www.lchps.com.* This event is held over zoom (virtually)
8tH annual GivinGtuesday - tHe Global day oF GivinG tuesday, december 1GivingTuesday is a global movement for giving and volunteering, taking place each year after Black Friday. The “Opening day of the giving season,” it’s a time when charities, companies and individuals join together and rally for favourite causes. Volunteer or make a donation to your favourite charities and continue to Feel Great Giving throughout December. https://givingtuesday.ca* Please participate online or follow the organization’s COVID-19 procedures where you volunteer at
7tH virtual polar bear cHallenGe “Freezin’ For a reason” november 1 - January 1, 2021Get your chill on and participate in the ultimate challenge of the North. You’ll be freezin’ for a reason as all funds raised go directly to support CRIS programming which provides outdoor recreation opportunities for people with physical and mental disabilities. Register and find a fun way to issue the challenge for family and friends to copy and donate. Be sure to join the livestram event in January on CRIS Adaptive Adventures Facebook page. $20 to register as participants or set up your peer to per fundraising page. The event is held on Zoom. [email protected], 250-979-3941, https://trellis.org/crispolarbearchallenge.
AdoptionAwareness
MonthWE ARE SENDING LOVE TO ALL OF THE ADOPTIVE
FAMILIES AND BIRTH PARENTS IN OUR COMMUNITY
N O V E M B E R I S N A T I O N A L
Adoption Centre of British Columbia
6 2020 Holiday activities Guide
are such important parts of our community. Here are some of the exciting Arts & Culture activities you can participate in during the Holiday Season:
The Okanagan RegiOnal libRaRy (ORl) - Online ChRisTmas sTORy:1) December 15th at 11am 2) December 17 at 3:30pmRegistration is required. You can register at: https://orl.evanced.info/signup/CalendarThe ORL will be closed from December 24 - January 1. Go to their calendar to see what other (non-holiday) events are happening during the season.Website https://www.orl.bc.ca/ | Contact: [email protected] or 250-860-4033
kelOwna aRT galleRy - nORTheRn Pine exhibiTiOn Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Group of Seven, this exhibition offers audiences a seldom seen side of Canadian art history. It presents 66 of the Group’s largely unknown works, such as a portfolio of lithographs that were published in 1925 by Rous & Mann, a firm at which several of the members had worked. Group of Seven members include: F.H. Varley, A.Y. Jackson, Frank Johnston, Frank-lin Carmichael, Arthur Lismer, Lawren S. Harris, and J.E.H. MacDonald.Website: https://kelownaartgallery.com/northern-pine/, Contact: [email protected] or 250-762-2226. The exhibit will be on display until March 7, 2021
ROTaRy CenTRe fOR The aRTsLocated in the heart of Kelowna’s Cul-tural District, the Rotary Centre for the Arts is a multidisciplinary visual and performing arts centre. They strive to improve the economic, cultural and social quality of life in the commu-nity by fostering the participation in, and appreciation of the arts. From the RCA@Home series, to in person work-shops, the RCA has a lot to offer you and your family this Holiday Season. Contact: 250-171-5304 or [email protected]: https://www.rotarycentre-forthearts.com/
Online Christmas
Special for Lake Country Seniors
This year has been very different in many ways for all of us, due to CO-VID. Christmas celebrations also are looking different, yet Lake Country Health is continuing to offer ser-vices to seniors, such as meal deliv-ery, appointment rides, and fitness classes. All of our services have been adapted to include new health and safety protocols, to help keep our seniors and staff healthy and safe. We can continue offering services that build community and friend-ships, as well as help seniors stay in their homes. Our Christmas celebra-tion has been adapted to ensure your safety. This year we are happy to wel-come an entertainer who will offer caroling and Christmas stories online, to help you get in the spirit of Christ-mas while safe at home. If you are a senior who needs help to learn how to access our online event, please let us know, as we help seniors learn how to use technology like a tablet device or Zoom. Tuesday, December 22 – All About Christmas! Please join local enter-tainer, Sally Evan’s for the Lake Coun-try Christmas Carol Special. Sally will share with you the songs, stories, and poems of the Christmas season, with a few jokes thrown in too. Let’s all get together on ZOOM and share in the spirit of Christmas. We will be doing the event online, us-ing Zoom, so if you are a senior who wants to participate, but you don’t know how to use Zoom, we can help you get online and learn how to use it. This online event will be held on Dec. 22 from (1:00 to 1:45pm). Maxi-mum 20 participants, so please reg-ister early. This program is free, and open to all seniors in the Lake Coun-try area. Call to register at 250-306-2540 or email [email protected] Who is Sally Evans? Your present-er, Sally Evans, is a singer and gui-tar player with 50 years of experi-ence in entertaining. Sally is at home on any stage, and she is excited to join you on the stage of ZOOM!
Arts & Culture in the Central Okanagan
Okanagan heRiTage museum A great activity to do as an individual or with your COVID-19 bubble is to go to the museum. Here are some of the activities that are on display during the holiday season: SEE: Kelowna – Visit this new installation for stories and images from people experienc-ing homelessness in Kelowna.Explore the Changes – Visit our ‘new’ gallery to see the transformation of our collection.Our Living Languages – September 19, 2020 – January 31, 2021Website: https://www.kelownamuseums.ca/museums/the-okanagan-heritage-mu-seum/, Contact: [email protected] or 250-763-2417
new VinTage TheaTReThe New Vintage Theatre has many events happening this holiday season, including It’s a Wonderful Life, a Live Radio Play from December 10-13. The iconic Christmas classic about one man’s bad luck and an unlikely angel takes the stage this holiday season. Trip back in time to the 1940’s with us to see this inventive live radio play starring some of the Okanagan’s most favourite actors as directed by Josie Morrow. Perfect for the whole family!Website: www.rotarycentreforthearts.com, Contact: [email protected] or 778-214-1456
alTeRnaTOR CenTRe fOR COnTemPORaRy aRTs
Two exciting exhibitions are on during the holiday season:One of Them Will be Unlucky - November 20, 2020 - January 9, 2021In Sora Park’s exhibition “One of Them Will Be Unlucky”, she uses her own family’s his-tory of migration as an impetus to explore the role that language plays in depicting the complexity of understanding diaspora. Where Are You Really From? - November 20, 2020 - January 9, 2021An exploration into the complex inter-sections of ethnicity, cultural hybridity, and nationality. Moozhan navigates the complicated implications of seemingly in-nocent questions, such as ‘where are you from?” a question often presented by strangers upon first meeting him.Website: https://www.alternatorcentre.com/events, Contact: [email protected] or 250-868-2298
Okanagan miliTaRy museum This museum is packed with uniforms, in-signia, badges, and one of the best fire-arms collections in Canada. Investigate artefacts from the Boer War, World War I and World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War, and contemporary military op-erations. Website: https://www.kelownamuseums.ca/museums/the-okanagan-military-mu-seum/Contact: [email protected] or 250-763-2417
2020 Holiday activities Guide 7
The holiday season is often a time where people come together to give back to the community. Whether it be volunteering with an organization, donating to a charity, or simply making food for loved ones, the holidays are full of community members spreading kindness throughout the Central Okanagan. This year things may look a little different because of the CO-VID-19 pandemic, but there are still many opportunities to give back. Check out ten ways you and your family can make the Season a little brighter for others:1. Offer to get groceries for someoneMany people in our community have barriers to getting the food they need, especially during the winter months. The weather and COVID-19 can drastically effect people’s mobility. One way to give back is to ensure that those around you have access to the food they need. Take the chore off of their plate and put food on it instead!2. Donate warm clothingHaving warm clothes to bundle up in is something everyone should have access to. You can help make a difference in someone’s life by donating winter coats, hats and mittens for others to stay warm and bundled up. 3. Shovel snow for your friends, neighbours, or family membersDo you know an elderly person that might not be able to clear their own driveway? Maybe your neighbor is always rushing to work and could use some extra time in the morning? This simple act of kindness can make a world of difference to someone’s day.4. Sponsor a FamilyOne way to make a big impact in a family’s life is to participate in some of the Hamper Programs in our community – check out the articles from the Central Okanagan Food Bank, Big Brothers & Sisters, Willow Park Church, Salvation Army and KCR’s Sponsor a Family to find out more. 5. Connect with someone The holiday season often intensifies people’s feelings of loneliness. Wheth-er it be from the death of a loved one, family living far away, or social isola-tion, not everybody has someone to spend the holidays with. Reach out to those around you to let them know you are thinking of them. Talk to them and let them know that they are cared for. Technology allows us to do this in so many ways, whether it be through a phone call, a video call, a text, an email, or anything else… a simple message can make someone’s day.6. Volunteer at a Shelter Contact your local shelter to see what ways you can help them during CO-VID-19. 7. Donate to a cause or organization you care aboutDonating money is a great way of making sure that people have access to exactly what they need. A bonus is that money doesn’t expire once the holiday season is over, so you can make an impact throughout the entire year. Most organizations have instructions on how to donate to them right on their websites or you could find them on CanadaHelps.org. If you are unable to donate via the internet or want to donate to a specific cause within the organization, you can give them a call. 8. Offer to do errands for a friend, family member, or neighbourOffering to do errands for someone can take a big chore off of their chest. As was previously mentioned, mobility is a huge issue for some members of our community, especially during COVID-19. Simply getting a task done for someone while you are already out is a great way to volunteer. 9. Help decorate your friend, neighbour, or family member’s home for the HolidaysAlthough you may not be able to go inside their house because of CO-VID-19, putting lights up on a house or decorating the outside in another way can be a fun holiday activity that will bring joy to the homeowner and others.10. Go to the VolunteerConnector and sign up for opportunities beyond the Holiday SeasonYour volunteering does not have to be restricted to the holiday season. The VolunteerConnector has many volunteer opportunities available through-out the Central Okanagan. Spend some time this holiday looking though the options and signing up for opportunities that match your skills and interests. VolunteerConnector.org
10 Ways to Give Back this Holiday Season The Gift of Christmas
A WilloW PArk ChurCh outreACh
Willow Park Church has started a new ini-tiative this holiday season. The Send-Out-Stockings (S.O.S.) program came about because the church’s infamous Living Na-tivity production had to be cancelled due to COVID-19. Jordan Pilgrim, the Associate Pastor at Willow Park, explained: “This year was to be the 30th anniversary of our Living Nativity production, but with the difficulty that we have of gathering in large groups, the look and feel of it would not be the same. We thought that this year it would be best to explore different op-tions that would allow our church to serve together in the community of Kelowna. We want to bring The Gift of Christmas to our community”. Willow Park’s mission with the S.O.S program is to get the entire church com-munity involved by providing many oppor-tunities to serve, including sewing, shop-ping, outreach, and more. “The goal is to provide 300 Christmas Stockings to people in the community who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to open gifts on Christmas morning… We aim to partner with many different charity groups around the city to provide this op-portunity”. The Willow Park Church community will first make packages of stocking de-signs and material for church members to take home and sew. Next, partnering or-ganizations, such as the Kelowna Gospel Mission and various seniors’ homes, will send lists of gifts that would be useful in the stockings. The church will then put the lists inside the stockings and hang them around the church for members to take home and fill. Finally, during a week-long mission, Willow Park will take the stocking to the all of the partnering organizations and individuals in need. During this mis-sion, Willow Park is also hoping to have their Small Groups take up an opportunity to serve in the community, such as prepar-ing meals and handing out socks and hot chocolate.Willow Park Church is hoping that the S.O.S. program will become an annual ini-tiative. If you want to help with the S.O.S. program you can reach out to Jordan at [email protected] or 250-571-8721.
Christmas is a season of love, joy and peace on earth, but for many 2020 has brought about such significant challenge that love, joy and peace can feel buried under the weight of the world. Over the past eight (8) months, there have been many who have
walked through significant challenges. Job loses and/or reductions; business closures; children being home-schooled; separation from loved ones; and the con-stant worry of COVID-19 itself… it can all feel like an incredible burden. Since March of this year, The Salvation Army in Kelow-na has seen a 61% increase in the number of individu-als and families seeking some assistance, and of those, 47% had never accessed their services prior to this year. As Christmas approaches, it is anticipated that the re-quest for assistance is only going to increase. In Kelowna / Lake Country, for families (2 or more liv-ing at the same address) that may need a little extra support for the Christmas season, they are encouraged to register for The Salvation Army Sharing Christmas Program. You can register on-line at www.kelownasal-vationarmy.ca or by calling 250-765-3450 x117. In reg-istering, your family will be provided with a food gift card that can be used to purchase the food items your family would like to celebrate the holiday season. For parents with children (under 18), you will be provided an appointment at the Toy Depot whereby you can se-lect toys for your children. In 2019, 526 local families and over 1000 children re-ceived assistance, and this was all made possible due to the generosity of this community. While things will look different this year, there are still several ways that you can support others during this season of giving and throughout the year. The Salvation Army is in need of Bell Ringers for this season. While Christmas Kettles will be out in the com-munity, there will be new and enhanced safety and sanitization measures including the wearing of PPE by all Bell Ringers and the sanitization of all equipment at the start and end of each volunteer shift. There will also be a NEW contactless donation portal (the TipTap) whereby donations can be given via your bank/credit card or with your cell phone (the TipTap will arrive in early December). The Salvation Army is also encouraging the community to create their own Virtual Kettle on their website / social media. Go to www.FillTheKettle.com to sign up and receive your Kettle Link. Share your link on your social media and challenge you family and friends to help you achieve your fundraising goal. All funds will remain here to support local families throughout the year. While many of the traditional Christmas events will look different this year, you can still donate food and new toys by dropping them off during business hours at either Sal-vation Army location (1480 Sutherland Ave. OR 200 Rut-land Rd South), or by supporting local drives (check out www.kelownasalvationarmy.ca for details about upcom-ing food/toy drives).
Lake Country Art Gallery
We are pleased to announce that the popular Under 100 Exhibition will take place this year, in spite of the unusu-al circumstances and various restrictions caused by the covid-19 pandemic. We will follow all safety protocols to ensure that everyone’s health is cared for.
Get an early access pass at our unique premier event
FRONT OF THE LINE, Friday November 27thKeen buyers will have first pick from the hundreds of af-fordable small works submitted by over 60 artists. By choosing from one of Six early access ticket levels you will gain exclusive entry in small parties for cham-pagne VIP treatment with live music, treats, prizes and first viewings of the art. Purchases will be gift wrapped for free in the Arthouse at the end of your session. For more information see our website www.lakecountryart-gallery.ca.
The official public Opening Reception of the Under 100 Exhibition will take place on Saturday, November 28th, from 10:00 – 3:00. Music, food, prizes and more will make this Opening Reception special.
A special feature of the Under 100 exhibition this year will be a visual tribute to the Lake Country Food Bank and its work in our community. The feature wall will include artworks that are of food. Non-perishable food donations for the Food Bank will be invited throughout the exhibition.
The Exhibition will be open 9am-3pm daily, with special late openings each Thursday as well as on the final day December 21st.For more information contact the Gallery at 250-766-1299 or [email protected]. Tickets for the Front of the Line event are available at www.show-pass.com/under100frontoftheline.
8 2020 Holiday activities Guide
Under 100 will operate following covid-19 safety advisories, including a maximum of 8 people in the gallery at one time.
Speical Event November 27Exclusive opportunity to see the Under 100 show in advance and to
purchase your choice of artworks.
VIP experience, Live music, Glass of Bubbly and amazing surprises!
Front of the Line ticketed event With a variety of start times to choose from get tickets at
lakecountryartgallery.ca Facebook Showpass
UNDER 100Front ofthe Line Event
9am 3 pm
2020 Holiday activities Guide 9
Social Distancing will be hard for most people during the Holidays and Seniors may be especially isolated. We have pulled together a few ideas and activities especially for the seniors in the communities for ways to get connected or stay engaged.
Stay connected while staying away. Call, video chat, or stay connected using social media.Take care of yourself and your community. Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family helps with stress and makes the community stronger. Ways to cope with stress
• Take breaks from news stories, including social media. Do something creative or mindful instead. Make time to unwind.• Take care of your body.
o Take deep breaths and stretch.o Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.o Exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep.o Avoid alcohol and drugs.
• Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.Things to do While Physically-Distancing
Do a Puzzle, Sudoku, or Crossword Read a Book or the Newspaper Write or Journal Your Thoughts, a Story, a List, or a Poem Draw, Paint or ColourWatch Television or a MovieMeditate and Practice GratitudeCook or Bake
This is a great time to ask your grandchildren to help you improve your technology skills - see page 18 in the Possibilities Guide at kcr.ca/publications for more information.
Listen to MusicKnit, Sew or Needlepoint Do a Home Workout Teach Your Pet a New Trick Clean and Declutter Your HomeKnock Something Off Your To-Do List Learn a New Skill
KCR’s VolunteerConnector - great resource to explore online or face to face volunteer opportunities - Volunteer Connector: Browse Volunteer Opportunities.
Bereavement support group | Computer literacy, by appointmentEnergy for wellness | Men coffee and cardsMonday Morning Coffee | Sunshine singers, via Zoom
Musical Jammers | Tai Chi for wellness | Outreach | Friendly visitor/callersGrocery shopping pick up and delivery | Transportation to essential appointments | Better at Home, Light Housekeeping
LAKE COUNTRYLake Country Health Planning Society is offering a variety of programs, including Keep Connected where seniors join virtual games and activities (remote training and support are avail-able). In the Care-mongering program, volunteers connect through virtual visits or help with driving to appointments or delivering groceries. LCHPS also offers a meal service and their Active Agers fitness program is designed for older adults look-ing for a low-intensity group exercise class. Registration for each session is ongoing but limited to space.
Contact Lake Country Health for more info, email at [email protected] or call 778-215-5247 or visit Lake Country Planning - Seniors
KELOWNASeniors Outreach and Resource Centre Telephone Social Programs - This free, interactive, telephone-based program provides activities to adults 55+ living in Kelow-na. Activities include Coffee Break, Syilx Storytelling, Travel-ogue, Bingo, Trivia, Languages, Scattegories, Monthly Birthday and more.
Register online, telephone 250-861-6180 ext.1 or email: [email protected]. https://seniorsoutreach.ca/
WESTBANK FIRST NATIONWestbank First Nation health and wellness programs aim to promote physical, mental,emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. We are work-ing to ensure the safety of our Members, staff, and residents. Social distancing practices have been implemented, as well as signage and sanitary stations for enhanced safety measures.For program and service information contact Wanda at 250-768-0227 or email [email protected]
Please feel free to contact PWC for more information or referral to supportive resources.
Phone 250-767-0141 or email [email protected] or visit https://www.peachlandwellnesscentre.ca/
Tips for seniors This holiday season
Central Okanagan Senior Serving Organizations have many safe and inter-esting programs and services available in your community.
WEST KELOWNAWestside Health NetworkIf you are a senior who is self-isolating due to COVID-19, the Westside Health Network can help with • Groceryshoppinganddelivery• Prescriptiondelivery• Afriendlycall/virtualcheckin• MealdeliveryThey are open 8am-2pm from Monday to Friday. For in-formation and Referral Phone Line: 250.768.3305 or visit www.westsidehealthnetwork.org
PEACHLANDPeachland Wellness Centre:PWC is back to regular office hours, Monday to Friday 9 to 3. COVID safety procedures are in place. A variety of programs & services are available:
KCR Community Resources has created the Possibili-ties Guide that is all about celebrating and connect-ing for older adults. Look for the hard copy at one of the above locations, or find it online at www.kcr.ca.
As the weather grows colder, share your Holiday Spirit with the local Shelters and the humans they help. Giving, as a volunteer or a donor, will make a huge difference in your own life as well as the lives of our community’s most vulnerable.Supplies Shelters May Need (please sort separately)- Personal hygiene items: toothbrush & toothpaste, shaving cream razors, deodorant (mini size) and feminine hygiene products- Outerwear Clothing (new or used): shoes boots, toques, scarves, gloves, long johns,pajamas, underwear and socks- Blankets for single and double beds (thin, machine washable, new or used)- Sleeping bags (new or used)- Bus tickets, Gift Cards to Canadian Tire, Rona, Superstore, Independent, Wal-Mart, etcStocking Stuffer Gifts- Chocolate and Candy- COVID-19 Mask (packaged or home-made)- Mini Flashlights- Hand Sanitizer- Make-up- Hand, Face or Body Creams- Q-tips- Nail clippers- Gloves- Chapstick- Bus tickets- Tim Hortons Gift Card- Socks- Note Pad Pen- Cough DropsGo to the shelter’s website or contact them directly to find out about how you can help.
Some of the Central Okanagan Shelters include:Cornerstone Shelter (425 Leon Ave)Contact: [email protected] or 250-317-6678www.johnhowardbc.ca/okanagan-kootenay/services/cornerstone/
Kelowna’s Gospel Mission Shelter (259 Leon Ave)Contact: [email protected] or 250-763-3737www.kelownagospelmission.ca/volunteer
AG HouseContact: [email protected] or 250-763-2262https://www.nowcanada.ca/vendors/
Kelowna Women’s ShelterContact: [email protected] or 778-478-7774www.kelownawomensshelter.ca
West Kelowna Shelter SocietyContact: [email protected]
Welcome InnContact: [email protected] or 778-940-6884www.welcomeinn.org/
Ellis Street Supportive HousingContact: [email protected] or 250-861-3644www.cmhakelowna.com
Share the Spirit of the Season with Local Shelters
Join us in Regional Parks this December!THURS, DEC 3 10:00am Green Christmas at KaloyaSUN, DEC 6 1:00pm Family Winter Hike at Mill CreekWED, DEC 9 9:30am Showshoe Hike at KLO CreekTHURS, DEC 10 1:00pm Green Christmas at Scenic CanyonSAT, DEC 12 10:00am Winter Birds at Scenic CanyonSUN, DEC 13 1:00pm Family Showshoe at Trepanier CreekWED, DEC 16 12:30pm Snowshoe Hike at KLO CreekSAT, DEC 19 10:00am Winter Birds at Scenic CanyonMON, DEC 21 1:00pm Frozen Forest Foray at WoodhavenTUES, DEC 22 10:00am Tobaggan! at Black Mountain-sntsk’il’ntənTUES, DEC 22 1:00pm Winter Bird Feeder at Mission CreekTUES, DEC 29 1:00pm Winter Bird Feeder at Mission CreekWED, DEC 30 10:00am Snow Science at Stephens CoyoteWED, DEC 30 1:00pm Winter Bird Feeder at Mission CreekTHURS, DEC 31 10:00am Snow Science at Stephens Coyote
For more information aboutRegional Parks programs and toregister online visit:rdco.com/parksevents
Health and safety is our top priority. The RDCOfollows the direction of public health experts toslow the spread of COVID-19. We have adjustedour programs by limiting the number of participantsand maintaining physical distancing. Masks areencouraged and programs are outdoors. Beprepared to participate in all weather conditions.
Huron Carole
Andrew Allen
It’s a Wonderful Life
Natalie MacMaster andDonnell Leahy’s A Celtic
Family Christmas At Home
NOV 28 | virtualStarting at $20
DEC 4 & 5 | Live at the RCAStarting at $30
DEC 10 | DEC 11 | DEC 12 | DEC 13 |Live at the RCA Starting at $30
DEC 19 | virtualStarting at $25
Limited tickets available forLive RCA events due to
COVID-19 safety measures.RotaryCentrefortheArts.comBook your tickets TODAY!
This year with the holiday season fast approaching, we are all faced with different challenges. For some, it may be wondering where a healthy, warm Christmas meal may come from. For others, feeling helpless in be-ing able to support our community. The Central Okanagan Food Bank is – as always – focused on creating a healthy, hunger free community, yet at this time we are also focused on bridging connections. Connec-tions between those that require food assistance in our community, and those that can be of great help.At the Central Okanagan Food Bank (COFB), a growing average of 3,195 households are served each month. Our service area spans Kelowna and West Kelowna, and due to the current economic climate, the number of households facing food insecurity continues to swell, rising
over 27% since March of this year. The recent influx of client registrations reminds us that food insecurity can affect every type of household: people living with disabilities, low- income young adults, single parent-households, working families, and senior citizens.The Central Okanagan Food Bank also assists many partner agencies in the community to provide food alongside their core social service delivery. Cur-rent partner agencies include the Canadian Mental Health Association, John Howard Society, Kelowna Gospel Mission, Kelowna Womens Shelter, Salva-tion Army, Seniors Outreach Society, Freedom’s Door, Boys Girls Clubs, Metis Community Services, and Seniors Outreach Society, and 32 other local food banks.
2020 Holiday activities Guide 11
Finally, in place of our annual Fork Spoon Gala, we present a new fundraiser “Bake the World a Better Place.”This is a pie sale and auction to support the Central Okanagan Food Bank. Pur-chase a holiday pie to enjoy with family or as a gift for others this Christmas, made by one of Kelowna’s top 25 chefs and bakers, and a few celebrity pie mak-ers from the Central Okanagan! More details to be announced in early Novem-ber by KelownaNOW and theCentral Okanagan Food Bank.Find out what’s happening around the community in real time via instagram, facebook, and twitter: @cofoodbank
To Receive Food SupportChristmas Hamper Program •distributedbyappointmentonly,December7-23 •calltobookbeforeNovember27th(250-763-7161)Regular Hamper Program •canbeaccessedevery28daysbyappointment,throughouttheentireyear •calltoregisterinKelowna(250-763-7161)orWestKelowna(250-768-1559)
To Provide Support to OthersMonetary Donations •[email protected]/donate •Atthetill@Loblaw’sFoodStores(Nov26-Dec24)Food Donations •CommunityFoodDrive-RotaryCentrefortheArts(Nov16-Dec13) •Stuff-a-BusFoodDrive–seedetailsonoursocialmedia(Dec4-6) •NeighbourhoodCollections–seedetailsonCastanet(Dec8-20)Other Ways to Help •Volunteer–signupatcofoodbank.com/volunteer •WashyourCar-Skogie’sAutoSpadonating.50perwash(Nov1-Dec31)
Read more atreallygreatsite.com.
620 Leon Avenue – Kelowna, BC V1Y 9T2 Phone: 250.763.8008 Fax: 250.763.6282Email: [email protected]: www.kcr.ca
EmploymentServices
ImmigrantServices
Family &Adoption Services
Community Services
VolunteerConnector is a freeplatform for organizations topost volunteer positions andfor volunteers to exploreopportunities and apply.
The VolunteerConnectororganizationalmembership is free!
Key benefits include:
Upgrade yourmembership anytime toa $10/monthsubscription to getthese added benefits:
12 2020 Holiday activities Guide
KCR’s Sponsor a Family Pro-gram program matches gen-erous sponsors from the com-munity with a family. The families selected are work-ing hard to rise above their circumstances and make the lives of their children better. This year more than ever, we need your support. We have seen the need increase signifi-cantly during the pandemic, with more families facing in-creased hardships.
Recently a mom shared her story of what the program has meant to her: I am a single mom of four amazing children. The Spon-
sor a Family program has been totally life-changing for us. We left my abusive hus-band in 2015, with nothing to our name and at signifi-cant risk of homelessness. The journey to any kind of stabil-ity was a perilous one, but a safe home with regular food on the table was always the priority for me. Growing up, the holidays had been a really big deal in my family, which was something I wanted to maintain for my own children. But there I was, entirely alone in the world. If you can try to imagine be-ing totally traumatized, rais-ing four traumatized children on my own, receiving no child support, trying to maintain special needs therapies and dance classes and counselling for everyone while living on Social Assistance? That was me. With both of my parents having passed away in my 20s, there was no home to go back to and no safe place to land. Holidays became heartbreak-ing, and I was lucky if I could pull together a special meal and a movie night at home with the kids.
In 2018, a friend connected me with the support of KCR, and for the first time I felt like I had a safety net in the event of emergencies. That was the first year that we participated in the Sponsor a Family pro-gram, and I had no idea what we were in for. I remember getting the call that our ham-per was ready to be picked up, and when I went to the office, the staff just started bring-ing out giant bag after bag after bag to fill up my van. I just couldn’t even believe it! When the kids got home from school that day, it looked like we had been personally vis-ited by Santa. They had never seen gifts piled like that! Both of the years that we have been blessed to participate in the program, the sponsors have put so much work in to caring for each one of us. Not only were there gifts for each of the children, there were grocery cards to help with dinner, and even gifts for me! As a single mom, who would think to buy gifts for me? All were chosen with such atten-tion and respect for each per-son in my family, and beauti-
fully wrapped with care. All of us are just so excited for the holidays now! Now we count down to Decem-ber, which has become the most supportive and excit-ing point in our entire year. None of us feel the pressure or the stress of not being able to pull it together anymore. This program, and the people involved in it, brought the magic of the holidays alive for us and reignited our faith in humanity. I am thankful, more than words can say, for the wonderful memories that will fill the children’s minds when they look back at their childhood holidays, which is entirely thanks to the Sponsor a Family program.
Sponsor-a-Family Life-changing for Family of Four
If you would like more in-formation about Sponsor-ing a family please contact Kara Aylard or Lisa Pillot by email: [email protected] or by phone at 250-763-8008 ext. 136 or ext. 121
Children giving to children: Kids and staff at Green Gables experienced the joy of giving by Sponsoring a Family.
2020 Holiday activity Guide 13
It’s been a busy year and we are not through it yet. This holiday season, with all of its excitement, expectations and changes due to the pandemic, the Rotary Centre for the Arts is offering a unique new programme that can help you navigate the coming months, as well as holiday programming that is safe, unique and festive.Weekly Pause: Music Relaxation Come Together: Music Mental Wellness are Community Programs hosted weekly by the Rotary Centre of the Arts. In this safe space, music therapy and mental wellness come together to create com-munity and support systems for holistic health. Our community programs sup-port people interested in addressing stress and feelings of overwhelmedness by experiencing relaxation music.Soul Sounds Music Therapy is co-owned and operated by certified music thera-pists Kayla Turnbull Lizzy Walsh. As a team, they created meaning in their cli-ents lives as they transition from isola-tion to strength-based connection and community. Music therapy services in-corporate various instruments, includ-ing voice, guitar, piano, and different rhythmic and melodic instruments. Both Kayla and Lizzy work within a model of evidence-based and research-informed
care. As certified music therapists, they hold specific education on how the various music properties affect all as-pects of health and have received training within trauma-informed therapy.Weekly Pause sessions are offered Wednesdays and registration in-formation is available on the RCA website at www.rotarycentreforth-earts.comThe RCA is also hosting the “Living our Art Showcase” on November 21 4:30 – 8:30 pm. Come celebrate his-torical knowledge and Syilx/Okana-gan Nation Artists at a safe dis-tance. Re-connect and be inspired by what makes our Valley vibrant and colorful and collect historical knowledge and Indigenous art at a safe distance with the Fill Your Bas-ket Artist Market.Your holiday spirit can only grow when you check out the other great shows coming up at the RCA includ-ing in-person and virtual options: The Huron Carole Virtual (Nov 28), Andrew Allen Holiday Concert (Dec 4-5), It’s a Wonderful Life (Dec 10), Natalie McMaster and Donnel Leahy’s A Celtic Family Christmas at Home (Dec 19) and the Centre for
Spiritual Living’s 28 th Annual Celebra-tion of Light (Dec 20). Info and tickets can be found on the RCA website.
Rotary Centre for the Arts offers programming for the Mind and the Season
Our warmestwishes this
holiday season!
Don’t worry, the quintessential Canadian winter experi-ence has not been hindered due to the pandemic. The City of Kelowna has approved opening the Stuart Park Skating Rink as of December 1st. The rink will be open from 6am-11pm daily. Some things to keep in mind while skating at Stuart Park this year include:• Physical distancing will be required • Gathering sizes will be reduced • Staff will be on site to monitor COVID-19 protocols • There will be no skate rentals• There will be no fire pit • There will be no food vendorsThese protocols are in place for your safety. If ensuring your safety becomes too challenging the rink may have to switch to a more restricted model that would include online, or shut down altogether. Stuart Park ice skating has become a must-do winter activ-ity in the Central Okanagan, but it is not the only place to skate! Here is a list of more places that you can go to fulfill your Canadian instincts: KelownaWebsite: https://www.kelowna.ca/parks-recreation/recreation-facilities-fields/recreation-facilities/public-skat-ing-schedules Contact: [email protected] or 250-469-8800Capital News Centre (CNC): 4105 Gordon DriveRutland Arena: 645 Dodd RoadMemorial Arena: 1424 Ellis Street Prospera Arena: 1223 Water StreetLillooet Park off Summit Drive atop Dilworth MountainNext to South Kelowna Elementary School in South-East KelownaLake CountryWinfield Arena: 9830 Bottom Wood Lake Road, Lake CountryWebsite: https://www.lakecountry.bc.ca/en/what-to-do/arena.aspx Contact: [email protected] or 250-766-3030PeachlandPeachland Outdoor Ice Rink: 5380 Princeton Ave, Peach-land (Mountain View Park) Website: www.peachland.ca/ice-rink Contact: [email protected] or 250.767.2647West KelownaJim Lind Indoor Arena: 2760 Cameron Road, West KelownaWebsite: www.westkelownacity.ca/en/parks-recreation-and-culture/recreation-guide.aspx Contact: [email protected] or 778-797-8800Please contact these rinks directly for any questions regard-ing their COVID-19 safety protocols or skating schedules.
14 2020 Holiday activities Guide
Stuart Park Ice Skating Still Happening!
Information Referrals & support Early learningprograms
Central OkanaganFamily Hub
Monday - Friday
We OfferPlaytime at our centreSupports for foodsecurity, life, or babyessentials
C O N T I N U I N G S T U D I E S
Share the opportunity to learn with certificates and coursesthrough Continuing Studies. Whether it’s building a careeror learning a new skill, our programs and classes are ameaningful investment for you or someone you love.
Winter courses and programs available now.Learn more at okanagan.bc.ca/cs
GIVE THE GIFT OF LEARNING
The holiday season is coming to Share Society, our Adopt a Family Hamper Program Family sign-up is now open. Families and individuals can sign up now to receive a holiday hamper this season by emailing us at [email protected] or calling at 250-763-8117. Our registration process willbegin November 17th-30th, and due to CO-VID-19 for all necessary forms and documents will be sent by email, fax, or done over the phone. We encourage families and individuals to sign up as early as possible.The Adopt-a-Family Holiday Hamper program runs every year to help families and individu-als in the Kelowna community ensure financial stress doesn't interfere with this special time. SHARE matches families up with sponsors in the community based on needs, requests, and bud-get. SHARE also uses sponsor donations made through this program to purchase Safeway gift cards which are then distributed to the home-less population in Kelowna around the holidays. There is no cost to participate. We require all those who will pick up and drop off to wear masks, if you do not have one we will provide it. Along with social distancing and hand sani-tization, there will be a limit to the number of people able to pick up and participate in the gifting program at one time in order to ensure proper social distancing. Contact:SHARE Society581 Gaston Ave, KelownaKaitlyn [email protected] https:/ /www.sharesocietykelowna.com/in-house-programs
SHARE shares Holiday HampersFamily Sign Up - adopt-a-Family Holiday Hamper
november 17- 30
2020 so far has been a challenging year for most in our com-munity. A world-wide pandemic has triggered incredible life changes that deeply impact us all. Social distancing is helping us combat a virus, but the resulting loss of connection, when we probably need it the most, is impacting our mental health and ability to cope. But even without a pandemic, anyone can reach a point where they don’t feel they have anywhere else to turn, where they feel alone and isolated. This can be es-pecially true during the holidays where additional stressors and pressures become overwhelming or feelings of loneliness become exacerbated. During these times, the Crisis Line is a lifeline. The Crisis Line is a community safety net that is available 24/7 and Crisis Line Responders are there to offer connection and support 100% of the time. Even when other supports are closed, they are there. The Crisis Line Responders, who also answer the Mental Health Help and Canada Suicide Prevention Services Lines, offer a vari-ety of supports that can include emotional support, risk assess-ment, de-escalation, safety plans and emergency interventions when needed. They are able to make referrals to appropriate services and can access immediate intervention through 911. You do not need to be in crisis to access support from the Crisis Line. You may even be reaching out because you are worried about a friend or family member. Crisis Line Responders of-fer a non-judgemental, confidential and safe ‘listening ear’. They don’t tell callers what to do, but rather assist them with exploring solutions, and then empower the caller to choose solutions that meet their needs. The Crisis Line is a vital community service that saves lives and KCR Com-munity Resources is proud to offer these services in the Central Okanagan area, as part of the Network of Inte-rior Crisis Lines.If you, or some-one you know, is in need, call the Crisis Line at 1-888-353-CARE (2273), any day or time. Text services are also available be-tween 4 pm and midnight every day. Simply text 45645 for help.
Crisis Line Responders are here to help.
If you, or a loved one, needs:- Emotional Support
- Information and Referrals- Crisis Intervention
Please call. Or from 4 pm - midnight TEXT 45645
The Crisis Line1-888-353-CARE (2273)
B ingoTake a hike
Call someone you’ve been thinking of
Build a Ginger-bread House for a cause
Make your own wrapping paper
Shop Local
Check out the Volunteer
Connector.org
Decorate a tree outside with eco-
friendly ornaments
Homemade Crazy Christmas Card
Photo Shoot
Have a Snowball fight
Christmas Tree I-Spy
Twinkle Tours Shine Bright
Zoom Game Night: Charades, Board Games and Cards
Random Act of Kindness
Crazy Carpet Sledding
Mail a Card or Family Newsletter
Make your own Advent Calendar
Jolabokaflod (Icelandic tradition of giving books)
Make your own Gifts
Polar Bear Dip for a cause
Learn calligraphy
Snow cones with maple syrup –
Yum!
Learn to knit or sew and make
matching items for family
Try Snowshoeing
Forage for foliage and make
natural holiday ar-rangements
Mindfulness Monday
Be Safe, Be Calm and Be Kind Seasonal Bingo
When social distancing cramps your traditional holiday-style, go modern and start some new traditions.Inspired by the Okanagan Young Professionals Local Love Bingo card from earlier this year and our very
own Dr. Henry, we have created a seasonal version, the Be Safe, Be Calm and Be Kind Seasonal Bingo. The suggestions below are just that – suggestions, meant to inspire you. Please remember that whatever you do, practice safe social distancing, follow health protocols (and they may change in the coming months) and always be kind. Share the Bingo Card with your friends and upload photos of your activities to Insta-
gram. Tag @kcrcommunity for a chance to win a KCR swag bag.
![C:\Fakepath\Holiday Activities[1]](https://img.dokumen.tips/doc/110x75/58ec85cd1a28abcf0e8b46bf/cfakepathholiday-activities1.jpg)
