$5M family donation kicks off wellness centre campaign
It’s Game On for a new fundraising campaign at Okanagan College.
OC students, donors, leaders, staff and community members were on hand Thursday for the launch of the Thrive Here campaign to build a new recreation and wellness centre on the Kelowna campus.
The facility will include a gymnasium, walking track and fitness suite. Construction is expected to begin in Spring 2024 with doors opening in 2026.
In making the announcement, OC President Dr. Neil Fassina said many people are surprised to learn that the Kelowna campus does not have a gym or recreational facility already.
“As our Kelowna campus continues to grow with new student housing and learning centres, we want to be able to offer the best college experience possible – including one that prioritizes student health, wellness, and active lifestyle opportunities,” Fassina said.
High-profile donors have stepped up to support the $14 million facility, including the Folk family, who have donated $5 million. Their transformational gift is the largest one to Okanagan College in its 60-year history, and one of the largest-ever single donations to any college in B.C.
Don Folk, a long-time philanthropist and until 2015, the owner of Don Folk Chevrolet in Kelowna, said that playing sport and staying active is crucial to physical and mental wellbeing.
“No matter the level – whether you are chasing a gold medal or playing for fun – sport teaches life skills, teamwork, and risk-taking. It builds confidence and resilience, and forges bonds that last a lifetime,” Folk said.
Folk’s wife Karen passed away in August. She was a passionate golfer, played racquetball and curling and shared the family love of football.
“Karen’s passion for sport and community will live on as thousands of students compete, play and connect in the new centre. Through sports and recreation, these students are building the skills and strength to become the next generation of community leaders and skilled professionals,” Helen Jackman, executive director, Okanagan College Foundation, said.
“The Folk family’s gift is the driving force behind this invaluable centre, and we are truly grateful for their generosity, trust and vision. They have inspired us and they will inspire many others to support this campaign.”
Cliff Serwa, who shared his enthusiasm for the project and its impact on community, along with his wife Lois, have donated $500,000 and are honorary campaign chairs for the Thrive Here campaign.
“Without basketball, I would’ve quit school early and driven a tractor and been quite happy,” Serwa remarked. “If I had done that, then there may not have been a Big White [ski resort] and I certainly wouldn’t have been in politics. It was education that enabled me to be able to get involved in a variety of different fields – but it all started as a focus from my activity in sports.
Members of the OC Coyotes baseball and basketball teams posing with donors Cliff and Lois Serwa and OC Foundation Executive Director Helen Jackman. (submitted photo/OC)To date, the Okanagan College Foundation has raised $9 million towards the Recreation and Wellness Centre at the Kelowna campus. To get across the finish line, the foundation is calling on the community to help raise the remaining $5 million.
When built, the facility will be centrally located on the Kelowna campus, creating a space for intramural sports for students to enjoy, and a venue for the OC Coyotes teams to train. Community events and large celebrations, including college convocation and commencement ceremonies, could also be held there.
To learn more about the Recreation and Wellness Centre and how to donate visit: www.okanagancollegefoundation.ca.