Fearless fundraisers rappel down Kelowna tower for Easter Seals Drop Zone – Okanagan

When Gerry Austgarden’s wheelchair crossed the threshold of a Kelowna, B.C., tower, he entered the ‘Drop Zone,’ where he and his chair descended 23 stories to raise funds for Easter Seals BC and Yukon.

He was one of 52 participants in the annual Easter Seals Drop Zone fundraiser, rappelling down a tower in Kelowna’s Landmark District.

“It was a little scary because it took quite an effort to get me over the edge. Once I did it, it was pretty good,” said Austgarden.

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Drop Zone for Easter Seals

This year’s fundraising goal is $100,000, with the majority of funds going towards Easter Seals camp programs in B.C., including Easter Seals Camp Shawnigan on Vancouver Island, Easter Seals Camp Squamish, and Camp Winfield in the Okanagan.

“Camp is a very expensive endeavor. We accommodate roughly 1,000 campers annually in the province,” said Lisa Beck, CEO, and president of Easter Seals BC and Yukon. “It costs us about $3,600 per camper due to the high ratio of camp counselors and support staff, including registered nurses.”

Additional support is essential for campers of all ages with physical and cognitive differences. With the right team in place, campers can enjoy activities, have fun, and create lasting memories without worries.

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“From my perspective, camp is the best place on earth. Campers spend a week doing various activities like high ropes, low ropes, and pool,” said James Gagnon, vice-president of programs and services. “At camp, we make things work for campers who are often told ‘no’ in their daily lives.”

This event is the first of four Drop Zone events in the province this month. The next ones are scheduled in Vancouver on Sept. 10, Burnaby on Sept. 14, and Victoria on Sept. 18.

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