Giving is Better Than Receiving: Fresh Air Kelowna in the Community
It’s always nice to think about the new gear under the tree, but we always like to remember that giving is better than receiving. Fresh Air Kelowna has been on a mission to support our community since 1981.
How Fresh Air Kelowna Gives Back
We support multiple organizations in the community all year long. Here are the main causes we support, but we’re always looking to lend a hand to those in need:
Mamas for Mamas
Our main organization partner is Mamas for Mamas. This partnership began back in 2021 when fires were impacting families in Kelowna, and we were moved to find a way to help families in the community. Mamas for Mamas is a national charity with a branch in Kelowna that helps provide a safe space for poverty relief and fill in the gaps where resources may be lacking. We support Mamas for Mamas through clothing drives, donations, and helping to amplify their cause. Learn more about Mamas for Mamas and donate today.
YMCA Cycle for Strong Kids
The Cycle for Strong Kids is the YMCA of the Southern Okanagan’s largest fundraiser. We’ve been longtime sponsors of this annual event, which raises money for multiple programs at the Y that keep kids in sports and offers valuable financial assistance for families in need in the Okanagan. Every year, the Fresh Air team rides to raise money and awareness for the campaign. Learn more or support the YMCA.
Other community initiatives
Over the years, we’ve helped support our community through charitable causes and by bringing people together through clubs and races.
Kelowna Running Club
In 1981, Fresh Air helped found the Kelowna Running Club. The first Fresh Air Experience store was the home base for Kelowna’s two running groups when they emerged to become one.
Kelowna Apple Triathlon
Started by Fresh Air founders Jim and Karen Bates in 1983, this triathlon remains a mainstay of the triathlon circuit to this day.
Fresh Air Experience Women’s 5 and 10k
Created by Karen Bates, this annual run has raised over $100,000 for charities to date.
Fresh Air Athena
Amie Olar founded the Fresh Air Athena women’s cycling club in 2015 to help women cyclists find a community and grow in their sport.
Across the Lake Swim
The Interior Savings Across the Lake Swim is the longest-running open-water swim in Canada, and Fresh Air makes sure to support it every year through weekly swim clinics and wetsuit demos for participants.
These are just some of the ways that we’re giving back to Kelowna now and always. We hope it inspires you to lend a helping hand, join a club, or get out and enjoy the fresh air!
Quit dreaming, start doing. Our sports stores in Kelowna have everything you need to find your new sport. See what’s in store, then get out and enjoy the Fresh Air!
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