Businesses are getting behind the 2016 Penticton BC Winter Games by showing their support on their windows.
Every business that signs on as a Friend of the Games receives a storefront window cling to show the world they are backing the community and that they have “Got Game,” just as the event slogan — Penticton’s Got Game — suggests.
“There are many businesses that have signed on as Friends of the Games supporters, and many more are needed to ensure that the 2016 BC Winter Games are a success,” said Host Society President Bill Bidlake. “There are many opportunities for the business community to support the Games, the largest amateur multi-sport event in B.C. that will increase the profile of Penticton and South Okanagan region.”
The 2016 BC Winter Games take place Feb. 25 to 28, 2016 and are a huge undertaking. Over 2,000 young athletes, coaches, officials and families will come to the South Okanagan, resulting in significant economic impact for local businesses.
For Greg Caverly, Owner of Accent Living & Fireplace Gallery, becoming a Friend of the Games was an easy decision.
“It’s good for small businesses, because they’ll get a lot of exposure for their business during the Games with that many people coming to town. It’s also a great mentoring program for youth, and a huge benefit for our community overall. It’s awesome that Penticton can host a huge event like this,” Caverly said. “We’re hugely community driven at Accent Living & Fireplace Gallery; we like to take part in community initiatives. We wanted to support the BC Winter Games because we want more of those types of events coming to town, and ultimately, have more people learn about what we do and what we offer. It’s very exciting.”
The Host Society is looking for Friends of the Games to ensure the event sets the standard for future BC Games. It is estimated the Games will have a $1.8 million economic impact for the region in February of 2016, potential for equipment legacy for local organizations and a financial legacy can be re-invested into local sports and community projects.
Friends of the Games receive myriad benefits, including attending many of the inspiring events held over the four days.
Depending on the commitment level, Friends of the Games can participate in creating those memories for athletes, like presenting athletes with their medals.
Sponsorship with cash and in-kind donations will leave an important legacy to your community. Contact Edgar Yost, Co-Chair of Friends of The Games, 250-809-4764, edgar@mydvw.com or Tim Broesch, Co-Chair Friends of the Games, 250-490-5487, or Tony Acland at tacland@weberstephen.com 250-486-5518. The full Friends of the Games package is available on www.bcgames.org.
The BC Winter Games showcase B.C.’s best young developing athletes and provide a unique opportunity for athletes to experience provincial competition in a multi-sport Games setting, taking the first step towards the national and international stage. Competition will take place over four days in 17 sports such as badminton, biathlon, basketball, curling, diving, figure skating, gymnastics, judo, karate, skiing and speed skating, plus more.
The host society is hosting the Torchlighting Ceremony on Nov. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the South Okanagan Events Centre plaza. The event is free and includes live entertainment.
