In fundraising there are things you can control and things you can’t, such as the weather.
For Snowarama, the annual Easter Seals snowmobile derby held February 6, weather is critical and this year’s combination of mild temperatures and lack of precipitation did the Saskatchewan Abilities Council (SAC) no favours.
However, despite reduced participation, 158 riders, and a slight rain falling as they took off on the 20-mile trail from Super Trac’s Racing Museum to Good Spirit Provincial Park, the event raised $116,358. Additional funds will also be forthcoming once results of the Saturday night banquet silent auction and raffles are tallied.
Even with that, the final amount will be well short of the fundraiser’s goal of $160,000. Despite the shortfall, Deana Jesmer, community relations coordinator for SAC, said they are not disappointed with the result.
“Considering the trail conditions, the community really rallied to make for a very successful one-day fundraising event,” she said. “It’s quite admirable, really.”
Snowarama funds three children’s programs for kids with varying abilities, Adaptive Technology Services, Summer Fun and Camp Easter Seals.
“The programs provide self-confidence, independence and recreational opportunities for children with disabilities in Saskatchewan,” a press release stated. All funds from the local effort benefit children in the local area.
