The Lhtako Quesnel BC Winter Games is still on the hunt for more volunteers and cash sponsorships. On Friday, Enbridge contributed significantly to the financial campaign. The energy transmission company, with an extensive network of pipelines in B.C., including through Lhtako country, added $25,000 to the Games effort.
“As members of this community for almost 70 years, we take pride in participating in this historic sports event in the region. But more volunteers are still needed, so we encourage anyone who is available to step forward and help make these games successful,” said Ali Hendi, Enbridge’s manager of projects. “The company’s donation was made through its Fuelling Futures Program, which invests in communities and youth through financial donation and volunteer work. Enbridge employees who live and work in the area have also signed up to volunteer in this year’s Games.”
The cheque presentation was made at the Lhtako Dene Nation’s new longhouse located in the vicinity of the Lhtako government office and George Longe Memorial Park.
“For us, this is more than just a sporting event,” said Tim Michell, a Lhtako Dene Nation councillor. “All the participants gathering here in Quesnel will take home not only medals and memories of their competitions, but the stories and knowledge about our traditions and our people.”
Brian Balkwill, the president of the Games organization, was pleased with the depth of the pipeline company’s commitment. The Games are only about four weeks away.
“We are thankful for the $25,000 contribution from Enbridge towards the Lhtako Quesnel 2024 BC Winter Games,” Balkwill said. “Contributions like this ensure that these Games are a success in February and leave a lasting, positive impact on the community following the Games.”
With as many as 1,700 athletes, coaches and officials expected to participate, Hendi urged the public that “volunteer support is crucial for the successful implementation and operation of this year’s BC Winter Games. While 1,100 people have already volunteered, additional hands are still needed.”
Some of the areas of particular need are in food services, overnight shifts in accommodation, and certified first-aid responders, among other options. To pick a task and a shift that works for you, click on the volunteering tab available on the BC Winter Games website.
Click here to get to the volunteer sign-up page
Those in the photo are (L-R): Jeannie Quance, band administrator, Lhtako Dene Nation; Daryl Nelson, Enbridge’s senior operations specialist for projects; Ali Hendi, manager of projects, Enbridge; Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, councillor, City of Quesnel; Aaron Mannella, senior advisor of community and Indigenous engagement, Enbridge; Brian Balkwill, president of the Lhtako Quesnel 2024 BC Winter Games 2024; Maynard Bara, band administrator, Lhtako Dene Nation; Tim Michell, councillor, Lhtako Dene Nation; Ray Aldred, councillor, Lhtako Dene Nation; Wanda Aldred, councillor, Lhtako Dene Nation.
The Lhtako Quesnel 2024 BC Winter Games happen Feb. 22-25.
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