Some of the wreaths available this year. All wreaths have images on the bidding website as well. (Supplied)

By Ashley Lavallee-Koenig

BIDDING CLOSES DEC. 16

Festival of Wreaths to support Lacombe and district Big Brothers and Big Sisters

Nov 26, 2024 | 3:07 PM

The Big Brothers and Big Sisters Association of Lacombe and District is holding its 14th annual Festival of Wreaths, an opportunity to support youth in the community by donating to the association’s mentorship programs.

This year, there are 52 wreaths crafted by local businesses or individuals available through a virtual silent auction. Bidding closes at 1 p.m. on December 16 and the wreaths are on display in the Lacombe Memorial Centre and Blackfalds Abbey Centre.

“When you’re bidding on a wreath, or you’re able to purchase a wreath, that bid is a step towards brighter futures and stronger connections in our programs,” commented the Association’s executive director Brianna Berthiaume.

The Big Brothers and Big Sisters Association of Lacombe and District serves more than 430 youth in a year through its mentoring programs, said Berthiaume.

These programs match a youth in the community with a volunteer who takes them to do an activity both parties will enjoy, such as skating, going to a movie or the library, among many other options.

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“All of those activities are all around healthy relationship development and healthy interactions, which really builds that resiliency and helps youth reach their full potential,” Berthiaume explained. “It helps them be able to develop friendships better, have less stress in their lives, be better problem solvers.”

While monetary donations are greatly appreciated, with over 35 youth currently on a waitlist to access this mentorship programming, the organization is in need of volunteer mentors as well. Its programs are offered to youth in Blackfalds, the City of Lacombe, Bentley, Alix, Eckville, and other areas in Lacombe County.

For those that don’t have time to volunteer, the Festival of Wreaths offers an alternative opportunity to support the program.

Once bidding closes, the wreaths will be moved to the organization’s Bamford House in Lacombe for pickup.

Last year, the event raised just over $10,000. This year, Berthiaume said they hope to at least meet that threshold, if not exceed it.