Langara college students Sophie Richards and Georgia Hoar’s biking fundraiser to benefit REACH Respite program was a huge success on Saturday, March 16, 2024. 39 participated and $1905 was raised !The bike ride from Captain’s Cove Marina to host Brasserie Barnside, offered an afternoon of bike riding, snacks, beverages and community. REACH Foundation Board Director Laura Dixon was involved from beginning to end and offers the following insights:
” I was approached by two young women who are in the Langara Business Management Program who were enrolled in a Special Events business course. It is a higher level course that requires them to work with a team to create, plan and execute an event all within a few months. This is extremely ambitious for anyone but especially for full time students with part time jobs! The students were impressed with Reach’s Respite Care program and the concept “Ride for Respite” took off and the results were four times their expectations. Thanks to all the local businesses who donated to the Silent Auction, the fabulous hosts at Barnside Brewing and the Ride for Respite Team. As a result, the Respite Program can be made even better for the young people who are enrolled. We are very excited that Langara Business Management Program is doing this kind of experiential learning for their students as the non-profit sector benefits tremendously from the next generation’s input and energy. We are so grateful that they chose Reach.”
Georgia says, “After learning about REACH’s Respite Care Program, Sophie and I were inspired by how the organization uplifts individuals with developmental disabilities and fosters a supportive environment for every family member. We were lucky enough to get a tour of REACH’s facilities, where we saw firsthand all the different activities and resources that this organization provides for the community. We are extremely grateful for this opportunity; it has been so rewarding to work with amazing people from such a special program. We hope that moving forward there will be more recognition for Reach’s Respite Care program, and how truly important it is for the families and children in our community.”
Sophie offers her thoughts, “On the day of the event, Georgia and I were filled with nervous excitement. We hoped for a good turnout, but the support from our community exceeded our expectations. The generosity from local businesses and silent auction bidders alike was truly amazing. Witnessing the turnout, we felt such gratitude for the support, not just for us as students, but also in support of Reach’s Respite Care Program. This experience has been incredibly rewarding, and we hope that Ride for Respite helps to shine a light on the amazing work of Reach and its dedicated staff!.”
Overnight Respite Coordinator Rae-Anne Schneider said, ” Thank you so much Georgia and Sophie! Respite is a vital service that provides families with a temporary break from the challenges associated with caring for a child with a developmental disability, as well as fosters the opportunity for that child to grow new relationships and social connections. The funds raised by The Ride for Respite will be put towards activities, equipment and emergency hours for families in need.”
L:R Laura Dixon, Sophie Richards, Georgia Hoar, Rae-Anne Schneider
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