For 40 years, the sound of snowmobiles has been a welcome noise in Yorkton, as riders have gathered to raise money for Easter Seals. Snowarama’s anniversary year was marked with a longer ride through the trails in the area, and a successful fundraising campaign, bringing in $145,086 from 225 different pledge raisers.
John Denysek, regional director of the Saskatchewan Abilities Council, says they were really pleased that it was a good ride this year, with the weather cooperating and the Snoriders putting together a quality trail for the event. This year’s ride went to Stenen and back.
It’s a landmark year for Snowarama, as the event hits its 40th anniversary. Vintage sleds were on display at the event, some of which were ridden in the early Snowaramas, as well as bringing out vintage memorabilia.
“It’s kind of a reunion atmosphere as well as sharing a lot of good memories.”
In those 40 years, over $2 million for children with disabilities has been raised, but Denysek believes that the most important part is that individuals, corporations and volunteers are rallying around the cause.
“The longevity of the event, I don’t know of many fundraising events that continue for 40 years. A large part of that is attributable to the committee, which is always looking for ways to refresh the event, keep it relevant and keep it going. The need to support people with disabilities through Easter Seals and other programs will continue to exist, so we are very fortunate to have a committee that’s innovative and creative, and then we have the response from the community.”
While reflecting on the past, the event is evolving to keep people interested, Denysek says. Changes to the trail are part of it, as well as reintroducing the cabaret to the event to cap off the evening.
“Hopefully we will introduce Snowarama to a whole different segment of the population here in Yorkton.”
The money will go to three programs, Camp Easter Seals at Manitou Beach, the local Summer Fun Program, a local day program that served approximately 35 individuals in 2016 and Adaptive Technologies services, which has trained technologists assess people with disabilities and help them by using technology to help minimize their disabilities. Camp Easter Seals is the largest beneficiary of the fundraiser. A six day camping experience for a child at the wheelchair accessible camp runs about $1,500.
Denysek thanks supporters for making the 40th event a success, and he hopes to see the event continue for another 40 years.
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