One of the new holiday staple events in Outlook every December is the Christmas Gala hosted by the Small Steps Early Learning Centre, and this year’s event held on Saturday, December 10 at the Outlook Civic Centre was a rousing success that raised some significant dollars for the childcare facility in town.
Heather Phillips, President of the Board of Directors for Small Steps, says she and everyone behind the scenes of the gala were very happy to see it come off as another hit, with 130 tickets sold and everyone enjoying the catered supper, live entertainment of Chris Henderson’s band and the 75 items that were donated for the silent auction and raffle.
“The entire auction and raffle raised $7500,” said Phillips. “Thank you to everyone who donated!”
Not only was the auction and raffle successful, but the entire event managed to raise an impressive amount that will go right back into the facility, including outside improvements to the centre’s play area.
“We raised approximately $11,000 this year, which is absolutely amazing and we are so thankful for!” said Heather. “This money will be used to finish the yard, as well as purchase toys, craft supplies, educational materials, and help with staffing needs. A huge thank you to the community for their support. As a non-profit organization, we rely on a certain amount of fundraising to keep the centre running. We are pleased to be able to provide a much-needed service in the community, as well as provide jobs for community members.”
Since it opened two years ago, Small Steps has been consistently busy and only seems to be growing, with the number of kids doubling from last year and the facility either being full or a couple of spots away from being full every day. Staff and the board are ecstatic with these increasing numbers, which speak to how much of a need there was for a new childcare centre in Outlook.
“We have 140 children registered at Small Steps, ranging from drop-ins to full time children, which translates to about 90% full on a day-to-day basis,” said Heather. “We are thrilled with this number!”
Along with dedicated people behind the scenes, Small Steps also had helpful sponsorship that ensured the gala went off without a hitch, including Regal Motors (title sponsor) for the second year in a row, Scotiabank (major sponsor), and additional financial support and sponsorship from the Kinsmen Club, Home Hardware, AG Foods, Prairie Centre Credit Union, Broderick Garden Centre, and Riverbend Co-op; all of which have lent a hand to the success of the Christmas Gala since its inception.
For more on Small Steps Early Learning Centre, visit www.outlookdaycare.ca.
