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NOCLS laces up for Fun Run

New event raises funds for North Okanagan Community Life Society
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NOCLS president Darren Bradley (left), Sun FM promotions coordinator Nicole Lucas and NOCLS executive director Garry Molitwenik sport some costumes as they kick off registration for the 24-hour Fun Run May 12. (Jennifer Smith/Morning Star)

NOCLS is amping up the fun factor as it runs a new course in support of creating possibilities for physically and mentally challenged individuals.

The North Okanagan Community Life Society has switched gears with its annual fundraiser and moved from the green (golf tournament) to the first ever 24-hour Fun Run.

Teams of 10 are being sought to take part in the fun-filled event which starts Friday, May 12 at 5 p.m. and runs through to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 13 at the Vernon Curling Club. Similar to the former ski relay model (which some may remember from 11 years ago), the goal is keep at least one team member running the rink at all times, while participants will be dined and entertained throughout.

“It’s really 24 hours of fun, with emphasis on fun and less emphasis on run,” said Darren Bradley, NOCLS president.

Dinner, breakfast and lunch will be served, alongside Fun Run T-shirts and a host of activities including: volleyball tournaments, skits, games, beer pong, a costume parade (teams are urged to dress up), a dance, water fight and more.

“We will entertain you for 24 hours,” said Bradley.

In return, each team member is asked to raise a minimum of $200 for NOCLS.

“It will be a lot of fun and you’re supporting the community and supporting a great society that has done a lot for the community for a number years and still does,” said Bradley.

Since 1984, NOCLS has been turning disabilities into abilities - by focusing on the person rather than their disability, and providing the support needed to integrate them into every day community life.

“NOCLS works with families to develop a plan for their son or daughter to help explore options from present living arrangements to a good life like any typical person experiences,” said Garry Molitwenik, NOCLS executive director. “Our services also include assessment of needs, funding, navigating, budgeting, process support and ongoing support.”

Funds raised at the inaugural 24-hour Fun Run will help NOCLS continue to do just that.

Several teams have signed up already, including Baron Insurance, City Furniture, Sun FM and two NOCLS teams.

“Our team is going to have folks we are involved with, a mom and daughter,” said Molitwenik.

Sun FM is getting into some serious competition and has issued a media challenge.

“It’s on Kiss (FM), who is funner?” said the station’s new promotions coordinator Nicole Lucas.

For more information or to sign up a team or volunteer visit nocls.com



Jennifer Smith

About the Author: Jennifer Smith

Vernon has always been my home, and I've been working at The Morning Star since 2004.
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