By Sheldon Spackman

Second annual BIG Pursuit raises over $64,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters

Apr 22, 2018 | 7:37 PM

Around 150 people took part in the biggest fundraising event of the year for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Red Deer on Sunday.

The Second Annual ‘BIG Pursuit’ began at the Radisson Hotel on 67 Street and led participants to 10 different check points throughout the city to compete in a variety of fun challenges.

John Johnston, Event Manager, BIG Pursuit and Fund Development Manager at Youth HQ in Red Deer says the event replaces their long-time Bowl for Kids fundraiser.

“We thought we’d do something different than bowling,” he explains. “This is the second year we’ve done it. It’s sort of an adventure race and a way to see Red Deer that maybe they haven’t before.”

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He says 36 teams of four registered for this year’s event, slightly more than last year and raising over $64,000 with more pledges still coming in.

“Hopefully as this event takes-off, it’s the second year, we want to build on the success from last year, this event will grow and become even more popular,” he adds.

Johnston says Big Brothers Big Sisters relies on the funds raised from this event.

“They use these dollars to do their volunteer recruitment, their orientation, the screening, the matching,” says Johnston. “The waiting list program for the kids, Big Brothers and Sisters really relies upon these dollars every year.”

There are 71 children currently on a waiting list hoping for an adult mentor according to Johnston.

He admits though, it’s tougher to raise much-needed dollars when the economy suffers a downturn but is always encouraged by the generosity shown by this community.

“I just have to applaud all the people that have been pledging over the last three months,” states Johnston. “I applaud our presenting sponsor in Servus, Big 105, the Radisson for hosting it. Amazing sponsorship support in the community here for this event, we couldn’t do it without that kind of support.”

For more information on The BIG Pursuit and Youth HQ, click here.