May29
In a pivot from their traditional BIG Pursuit event, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Red Deer and District held the Virtual BIG Pursuit on Sunday, May 24. What would have been the 5th edition of their annual Amazing Race-style fundraiser was moved to an online format this year. The race, held on Sunday, May 24, raised over $36,000 to support Big Brothers Big Sisters community-based programming as well as in-school mentoring programs in Red Deer and surrounding communities.
24 teams registered to compete in Red Deer’s biggest adventure race before the March 15 early bird deadline, with several participating in the alternative Facebook Page-hopping adventure. This year’s unique event checkpoints featured curated videos from several local businesses and community supporters. Prizes were awarded at the closing ceremonies, held by Facebook Live on the Big Brothers Big Sisters Facebook Page, to top fundraisers as well as the top 3 teams who completed the digital race. Prize donations were made possible through the tremendous support of local community and event sponsors.
“These funds ensure no child is left behind,” said Rob Lewis, Executive Director of Youth HQ. “It’s wonderful to know that, even in the current climate, we have huge supporters in our community. We truly believe youth should feel empowered to reach their full potential and become the best version of themselves, and we can achieve that through our mentoring programs.”
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Red Deer and District is very grateful to have the continued support of our presenting sponsor, Servus Credit Union. Servus entered teams from each local branch in the central Alberta area, many of whom participated in the online race. Youth HQ thanks all our event sponsors and participants for making a difference for children and youth in our community.