Supporters gathered in Altona once again for the 41st annual Blue Sky Opportunities Fall Fundraising Banquet, the organization's biggest fundraiser of the year.
The goal was to raise $25,000 towards the cost of replacing the fire alarm monitoring system at one of the organization's 9 independent supportive housing units, the 212 Residence. The home was built in 1986 and, according to Blue Sky general manager, Richard Neufeld, the equipment is starting to age out.
"I know it doesn't sound that cool but it's needed for us to manage the building and to be safe," he said, adding the work is long overdue.
The project is a huge undertaking, added Neufeld, explaining the work includes switching out all of the heat and smoke detectors in the residence, as well as the alarm panel followed by a complete re-wire of the system. Total cost is estimated to come in around $30,000.
"This home has a water system in it, so it has fire suppression and there's many systems that need to be tied into this panel in order for it to work effectively and to call into emergency services when necessary," said Neufeld.
The evening was also a chance to brief supporters on the happenings within the organization over the past year.
One of the highlights, according to Neufeld, was the sale of the land on 3rd St. NW, the home of the former recycling shop. The money from the sale was used to pay down the debt attached to the new recycling plant built on 2nd St. NW. Neufeld explained over the course of three years, Blue Sky Opportunities has managed to chew down that mortgage from $2.4 million to $412,000.
"That's just amazing. It just shows you the support this community has," he said.
As for what he looks forward to most about the annual fundraising banquet, Neufeld says it's all about connecting with those supporters and meeting new advocates.
Those in attendance at Thursday's event were also entertained by Manitoba musician, Del Barber.
Sun, May 19, 1:00 PM
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