Style, community spirit, and generosity were on full display.

And there were races, but not using actual horses.

The North Okanagan Hospice Society celebrated the 25th anniversary of Hospice House with its Kentucky Derby Garden Party fundraiser earlier this spring.

Held at The Edge Restaurant overlooking the stunning Okanagan landscape, the event welcomed 85 guests with sparkling champagne and elegant canapés served on silver trays
throughout the afternoon.

Guests embraced the Derby theme with spectacular hats, elegant dresses, sharp suits, and creative outfits. The fashion was a highlight of the day, with prizes awarded for Best
Dressed, Best Hat, Dapper at the Derby, Best Duo and Showstopper.

The celebration paid tribute to Hospice House, which opened its doors on March 12, 2001, while also recognizing the North Okanagan Hospice Society’s 42 years of compassionate service to the community.

The afternoon featured a variety of activities including yard games, a putting green, photo booth, Bloom Bar, a $1 bucket draw, and a popular 50/50 draw.

“One lucky winner took home $722.50 in the 50/50 draw,” said Kris Fuller with hospice.

Perhaps the most entertaining part of the afternoon was a series of unique horse races.

The “horses” were creatively crafted pool noodles, and guests enthusiastically cheered on fan favourites TICKLED PINK, SUNNY SIDE UP, MINT CONDITION MONEY MAKER, PURPLE
REIGN, and BLUE SUEDE HOOVES.

The jockeys were members of StrongHER Kickboxing and Self Defense, whose energy and enthusiasm kept the crowd laughing and engaged.

Adding colour and whimsy to the celebration were 12 beautifully decorated easels created by local businesses, organizations, and community members. The friendly

competition showcased incredible creativity and community support.

The North Okanagan Hospice Society extends sincere thanks to Pleasant Valley Funeral Home, TMS Transition Marketing Services, Paper Bird Art, Secret Garden Daycare, Integra Tire, Cooperators Insurance, Oopsie Daisy, Celebration Signs, Okanagan Science Centre, Sandi Dixon,Optimist Club, and Chapman Industries for their participation.

Sandi Dixon with Royal LePage won the People’s Choice vote and a $200 GC to the Edge.

Guests also left with a special keepsake.

Each attendee received a pair of garden clippers generously provided by T&B Naturals along with a handcrafted mini flower-cone magnet created by Hospice Society volunteers.

“The North Okanagan Hospice Society extends heartfelt thanks to the many sponsors who donated prizes, auction items, experiences, products, and services that helped make the
fundraiser such a success,” said Fuller.

Community support came from Intrigue Wines, Dorian’s Greek Restaurant, Hester Creek Estate Winery, Elora Restaurant, Okanagan Spirits, T&B Naturals, KRM Designs, Interior
Provincial Exhibition, Canada Paragliding, The Pilates Hub, Parnell’s Appliance Centre, Black Fly Beverage Company, Teresa Durning, Elaine Rodgers Interior Design, The Vernon
She Shed, Enlighten Hair & Tanning, Raven Hair Studio, Oopsie Daisy, Transition Marketing Services, The Edge Restaurant, Gather & Bloom Co., The Vernon Flower Shop, The Flower
Spot, Integra Tire, Celebration Signs, Smooth Effects Vernon, and Home Building Centre. Together, these sponsors provided an outstanding selection of auction items, experiences, gift certificates, products, and prizes that contributed significantly to the day’s fundraising success.
“Special thanks to the Royal Bank of Canada team – they sent us five very stylish volunteers to assist with the day AND they donated $1,500 at the venue,” said Fuller.

“The society extends its sincere gratitude to every guest, volunteer, sponsor, donor, and supporter who helped make this milestone celebration a memorable success.”
For 25 years, Hospice House has provided comfort, dignity, and care to thousands of North Okanagan families.

This special anniversary event was a fitting tribute to that legacy and a reminder of the caring community that continues to support it.

Vernon Morning Star

Message History

Delivery option(s)