The Estevan Wildlife Federation (EWF) is trying to offset some of the revenues lost from its cancelled top fundraiser by having a large 50-50 draw.
The EWF’s annual fundraising banquet and auction – a popular event in the community each spring – has been cancelled for two straight years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The benefit supports a number of initiatives related to habitat and supporting wildlife.
“We haven’t had a fundraiser in two years, and we … may not see anything until next year … and we have so many projects we work on all year long, that we really do depend on those donations and a lot of our fundraising efforts,” said president Wanda Michel.
“This is one way we thought we could do it and keep everyone safe.”
Tickets are currently on sale for the fundraiser and the jackpot is growing. The draw date will be June 2.
Proceeds will go to several different initiatives. They have youth programs, including the conservation camp they have offered in previous years. The EWF isn’t sure if the camp will happen this year.
They also have in-school programs for kids.
Other things they maintain are pistol and gun ranges, which are popular with members, and they have some other projects they’re working on that will be announced in the future.
Michel said they don’t have a goal for the 50-50, as they recognize the challenging economic times, but it would be nice to sell around $50,000 worth of tickets, and be able to present $25,000 to the winner.
“We’re just quite grateful for anybody who wants to participate, and hopefully they can take home a little bit of money themselves,” said Michel.
During the Estevan Oilfield Technical Society’s inaugural Top Gun trap shooting event at the EWF’s range last month, a lot of tickets were sold.
“It’s really starting to pick up, and we have a few other things that we’re hoping will generate some exposure,” said Michel.
The EWF is appreciative of the many volunteers who have continued to support the organization, with donations of equipment and time that have kept the EWF’s costs low, and enable it to support different programs.
“We’re so blessed because we do have a community of great volunteers and companies who will step up and help out. That’s one thing we’re always grateful for, and really strengthens our organization,” said Michel.
