For the past 23 years, the Tree of Hope, a focal point in the Landmark District, has been a bright symbol of inspiration and hope to our community. However, not all Kelowna residents are familiar with the tree’s unique story. It all started with a 160-foot construction crane standing idle next to the completed shell of the Landmark 2 Tower. When Al Stober realized that his company could not use the crane until after the Christmas season, inspiration struck: “What if we could dangle a giant Christmas tree from the lifting hook of the crane?” Excited at the prospect, Al drew a sketch on a napkin at a local restaurant. He showed the drawing to his sons, and before they even left the restaurant, a plan was formed. By early December, the tree was finished and in place, casting a glorious radiance across the city – a glowing reminder of the spirit of the Christmas season. And so was born the tradition of the Tree of Hope at the Landmark District. While the Tree of Hope was originally intended as a single event, it has now been lit every year since 1995. The tree stands at over 120-feet tall and has approximately 25,000 LED energy-efficient bulbs. Most importantly, from late November until January 1, the Tree of Hope becomes a local celebration and a visible reminder to both our community and those visiting that Christmas is a time of generosity and fellowship. The Tree of Hope is a tradition created to spread compassion to those in need in our community – a beacon for fundraising, the tree symbolizes Kelowna as a community known for its kindness.
Hymers Private Wealth of RBC Dominion Securities is proud to “be a star” in support of the Tree of Hope: our $10,000 donation will be 100% matched by the Tree of Hope, and this year, will benefit the Child Advocacy Centre.
Supporting vulnerable children & families and contributing to positive mental health is at the heart of our practice and core values. The Child Advocacy Centre Kelowna operates an inspired, child-friendly environment dedicated to supporting those impacted by child abuse. They facilitate a collaborative model of care designed to empower those on the front lines in the fight against child abuse, work together to improve outcomes and build resilience for children, families and community. To learn more about the Child Advocacy Centre, please contact Ginny Becker at ginny@CACkelowna.com for a tour, or visit their website at www.cackelowna.com.
Please click here for a downloadable PDF version of this message.
Warm regards,
Rhonda
“Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without the words and never stops at all.” ~ Emily Dickinson