Sources Foundation is celebrating a new record, following its sold-out Rock Around the Clock gala fundraiser.
Held Saturday (Nov. 2), the "sock hop" – which kicked off the organization's biggest-ever fundraising initiative – added a whopping $605,000 to foundation coffers, far surpassing the $425,000 goal set by officials.
"We are extremely grateful for the generosity shown by our community," foundation president and CEO David Young said in a news release.
"Our supporters came together this past weekend to help us realize our vision of bringing life-changing services to our young people on the Peninsula."
Sources Community Resource Centres' executive director George Passmore last month detailed plans for Foundry South Surrey, a free, one-stop access to health and social care that's aimed at transforming youth services on the Semiahmoo Peninsula.
Once created, the project will provide young people (aged 12 to 24) in distress – and their families – with an "accessible, comprehensive, seamless, one-stop hub."
"It's a way of revolutionizing services to youth and families across our province," Passmore said.
Offering same-day support and services all under one roof, Foundry South Surrey – serving South Surrey, White Rock and Cloverdale – is hoped to become a reality in the next two to four years. The gala kicked off Sources' pledge to raise $5 million for it.
The event, held at Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club, also marked Young's final fundraiser as head of Sources. He plans to retire in January.
Describing the gala results as a perfect parting gift, foundation board chair Marlyn Graziano said Young "leaves behind an awe-inspiring legacy and a solid foundation us to keep serving the community."
The gala itself was a step back to the 1950s, as guests sporting lettermen jackets and poodle skirts walked into halls festooned with vinyl records, cut a rug on a checkered dance floor, perused retro posters and more.
"Swing dancers and classic rock and roll tunes kept the energy high," the release adds.
White Rock city councillor and local businessman Ernie Klassen was presented the Community Hero Award for his contributions to community and "outstanding" fundraising efforts for the Coldest Night of the Year.
Young, meanwhile, was surprised with a Social Impact Leader Award.
The release notes there is still time to support the sock hop. Tickets to the 50/50 raffle are on sale till midnight Nov. 28 at Trellis.org/RockAroundtheClock/raffle. Those simply wanting to donate may do so at sourcesfoundation.ca/Give
