An online fundraising campaign for LIFE Recovery Association in Abbotsford raised more than $108,000 during February.
The Love for LIFE campaign replaced the association’s annual gala, which normally welcomes more than 200 guests to raise money for residential recovery services for women.
As early as September, the fundraising committee had a few ideas on how to replace the gala, but they were forced to make changes to their plans in November, when public health recommendations tightened.
Instead of waiting for restrictions to be lifted, LIFE (Living in Freedom Everyday) Recovery focused on how they could get their message to the community.
“We knew it was going to be different, but we also knew what our supporters wanted most – to hear how our program is impacting women in addiction,” said Coletta Holmes, executive director.
The month-long campaign invited supporters to watch an online testimonial from a former client, Jenny, at their leisure.
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The campaign website was shared through social media, email and Love for LIFE gift boxes that were delivered to some guests who typically attend the gala each year.
One week prior to the March 1st reveal, LIFE received some generous donations, but were still far from their $65,000 goal. With the board, committee and staff pushing reminders out, the donations came flooding in during the last seven days and totalled over $108,000.
“We are absolutely overwhelmed by the support. It is truly humbling to see how many people, businesses and groups came forward asking how they could be involved,” Holmes said.
Recognizing the connection between trauma and addiction was a focus of this year’s fund-a-need. Part of the funds received will go towards contracting a licensed trauma therapist to better serve clients with the transformative work of trauma therapy.
The registered charity offers a continuum of residential support services: three homes and two different stages, ranging from stays of the months to years, depending on client needs.
LIFE Recovery’s commitment is to the delivery of programs that focus on physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional well-being.
Visit liferecovery.ca/loveforlife for details about the campaign or more information.
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