For the first time in the four years the event has been running, the Sparwood Fish and Wildlife Fundraiser sold out in record time gaining popularity with the community for being a great night for a great cause.
The Fish and Wildlife Fundraiser is an evening banquet hosted by the club of volunteers offering the opportunity to hand out many prizes and awards for trophy fish and game, as well as providing those attending with the chance to enter draws and raffles on items donated by local businesses and groups to raise money.
"I am really blown away by the response from everyone," said Darren Reghenas, Sparwood Fish and Wildlife Club president, addressing the guests at the event. "This fundraiser is run 100 per cent by our club volunteers, and is thanks to the generous donations we have received for all of the raffles and prizes. Money raised will go towards allowing us to continue with habitat enhancement and other fish and wildlife projects.
“Last year, we were able to donate $15,000 to various local projects such as donating $2,000 to help support the youth archery program, $6,000 to Nature Trust to help create more forage space and clear deadfall at Big Ranch, $500 to the Conservation Office to help support the outdoor access guide and $5,000 to Nature Trust to help acquire a critical parcel of land in the Wigwam area that will now remain free from development for the benefit of the wildlife."
Reghenas mentions that this coming year they will continue to look at wildlife and habitat related projects and will look to the public for their ideas and input on possible projects. He also gave a huge thank you to all those who attended and supported the event.
Over 30 awards sponsored by Sparwood CAT Rental were handed out, recognizing both youth and adult fishers and hunters.
Awards were presented by Jason Grywacheski from The CAT Rental Store and Darren Reghenas Sparwood Fish and Wildlife Club President.