More than $590,000 was raised during the first-ever STARS Rescue in the North event Wednesday in the Grande Prairie region. The fundraiser saw six business and community leaders airlifted to a remote location, where they had to raise a minimum of $50,000 to get home. Through using their phones, the online donation page, and their social networks, participants raised money to help STARS Ambulance with operational costs in Grande Prairie and across the province.
Those who participated included Allen Caron, President and CEO of Caron Measurements and Controls Ltd., Brent North, owner of North Realty, Dale Babiak, VP Production Operations for Strathcona Resources, Jeremy St. Laurent, owner of Liquid Edge Oilfield, Paul Driedger, Corporate Manager and Estimator for FTEN Group of Companies Inc., and Rob Adair, Division Vice President of Horizon North. Driedger says the experience opened his eyes to the work that STARS does.
“I’m familiar with emergency services but didn’t realize the extent of what the crews do. It’s very important and was such a great opportunity for people to see the work they do.”
The six participants also took part in hands-on challenges, giving them a deeper look at the organization’s work. STARS Chief Brand Officer Terri Strunk explains the organization was community-built, and the Rescue in the North event demonstrates that.
“It was so much fun holding this event in Grande Prairie for the first time. A heartfelt thank you from all of us at STARS and the patients who need us to the people of Alberta for their generous support.”
Allen Caron was the participant who raised the most funds during the event, bringing in $123,600. According to STARS, the online donation link will remain open for a few days following the event.