The Burnaby Neighbourhood House (BNH) is eagerly preparing for its 19th Annual Fundraiser Gala, a critical event for supporting the organization’s community programs.
Scheduled for Mar. 2, 2024, this year’s gala boasts a “Country Stars” theme, and promises an evening filled with entertainment and purpose at the Delta Hotels Burnaby Conference Centre.
BNH has become a staple in the Burnaby community since 1996, aiding over 20,000 individuals annually across diverse backgrounds.
“Every year we have something unique and catchy. Our gala is a lot of fun, and people love to come because of the lively theme,” says Antonia Beck, chief executive officer of Burnaby Neighbourhood House Society.
The event stands out for its unique blend of fun and fundraising, capturing the community's spirit.
“The Country Stars theme is new and catchy. We’re bringing Bonnie Kilroe, a diva impersonator, to entertain as country divas,” Beck says about the planned festivities.
The gala also offers a rare chance for the community to come together and dress up for a special night out.
“It’s a fancy event, one of the few opportunities to dress up in Burnaby. We moved the event to the Grand Villa a few years ago; it’s a really nice venue,” Beck says, highlighting the event's elegance.
A key element of the gala is the online silent auction, an important fundraising tool.
“Our silent auction is quite a big one. We’re also having an exclusive draw for a shopping spree, which is a feature of the event,” Beck says.
The funds raised from the gala are essential for sustaining BNH’s operations.
“It’s our premier fundraiser. We rely on the funds raised to support the operations of Burnaby Neighbourhood House,” Beck says.
The gala proceeds help maintain various unfunded programs, including volunteer coordination, which is crucial for BNH’s model of community engagement.
The gala's success also helps cover operational costs like rent for the spaces BNH uses, ensuring that the organization can continue its diverse range of community programs.
“Community fundraising is so important, as it allows us to use the dollars where we need them most,” Beck says.
BNH's role extends beyond just providing services; it acts as a community hub. Beck describes BNH as “the living room of the community,” a place where people can find a sense of connection, safety, and security.
“The idea is that there’s a place in the community that people can turn to for any information or connection they need,” she says.
The gala reflects BNH’s commitment to enhancing the lives of residents in Burnaby and celebrates the community's resilient spirit.
“Our Neighbourhood Houses have become the safety net for the community in many ways. Regardless of people’s status, they can turn to the Neighbourhood House,” Beck says.
The upcoming gala highlights BNH's role as a central hub for connection and support in Burnaby, reinforcing the organization's importance in enhancing the lives of its residents.
To learn more and to buy tickets today, visit www.burnabynh.ca/bnhgala
Burnaby Neighbourhood would like to thank the following organizations for their sponsorship of the 19th Annual Fundraiser Gala:
Presenting Media Sponsor: Burnaby Now
Platinum Plus Sponsor: Parkland
Platinum Sponsors: Burnaby Firefighters Charitable Society, Delta Hotels, Intracorp, Metropolis at Metrotown, RBC Foundation
Diamond Sponsors: Beedie, BMO Nesbitt Burns, Grand Villa Casino, Gulf & Fraser, Metrotown Mazda, Mulberry PARC, Scotiabank
Emerald Sponsors: Anthem Properties, BlueShore Financial, Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan, Deer Lake Law Group, Ethiopian Community Association of B.C., Minuteman Press Burnaby, Payworks, Wanson Group
Sapphire Sponsors: Chairs with Flair, Ironworkers Local 97, IUOE Local 115, Vancity, Westland Insurance
