Sunfest has now made it official.
Organizers of the huge music festival have been donating to local organizations for years but recently they announced the establishment of the Sunfest Benevolence Fund.
It’s first “sizable” donation — of $4,000 — has gone to the Clements Centre Society “to directly benefit child, youth and adult programs in the community and surrounding area,” according to a Sunfest spokesperson.
The funds will be allocated among three different programs: the Sundrops Centre for Child Development, supporting children with speech, occupational and physical therapy; adult programs, facilitating community-based recreation and leisure, as well as supporting adults to live independently; and the residential services program, providing group assisted living throughout the community.
“Sunfest is more than a four-day music festival,” said Emmalee Brunt, PR & Marketing Manager for Sunfest Concerts.
“Supporting the development of local, community based initiatives, non-profits and charitable causes is one of our highest priorities year after year and we are proud to give back,” Brunt said. “Looking into 2016, we are excited to continue the Benevolence Fund’s legacy and welcome any established non-profit, charity or community initiative to connect with our team for consideration.”
Sunfest has been donating to various groups for a long time, though, to the tune of $500,000 over 10 years.
In 2016, the Benevolence Society will donate an additional $250,000 to a variety of initiatives, totaling $750,000 to date.
“Giving back to the community is part of Sunfest’s mandate, and continues to be a strong gauge of the success of annual event,” officials said.
Previous donation recipients include: Cowichan District Hospital Foundation, MS Society, Canadian Diabetes Association, Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Rotary Club of Duncan, Duncan Chamber of Commerce and nearly 20 elementary, middle and high schools in the area.