The community turned out in record numbers for Blue Sky Opportunities’ annual fall fundraising banquet on Nov. 7 in Altona. This year’s event welcomed 352 attendees to the Rhineland Pioneer Centre, the most in the event’s history.
“We were at full capacity for the hall,” said general manager Ryan Potter. “Usually, ticket sales are capped at around 250. But getting a few more is a good problem. The caterers were efficient and managed the numbers really well.”
Potter expressed his delight at the turnout. “It’s just great to see. It just shows how much people support our clients and everything we’re working towards.”
With many new faces in the crowd, Potter took the opportunity to emphasize the non-profit’s commitment to integrating and fostering independence for adults with intellectual disabilities by maximizing employment and residential opportunities within the community.
He provided an overview of the various programs and services offered by Blue Sky, followed by heartfelt testimonials from clients.
Referring to the organization as a beacon of hope, Dave Unger, the son of one of Blue Sky’s founding supporters, John Unger, shared a recap of the organization’s 70-year history.
“Blue Sky has been a pillar in our community, providing essential services and support to those in need. It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come,” he remarked. “For my family, like many others, the history of Blue Sky has a personal connection. Sixty-four years ago, my oldest brother Ken was born with an intellectual disability due to what we later understood to be complications at birth.”
Dave’s father was determined that those with intellectual disabilities should be viewed as everyday members of society, allowing them to live and work alongside the rest of the community. Ken was one of the early beneficiaries of the ARC school program in 1966, and today he still works, lives, and socializes within the community.
Photos by Lori Penner/Voice
“Whether your time at Blue Sky was short-term or has become a lifetime career, the organization has been that place of hope and has given their staff and clients the belief that everyone deserves an opportunity, which for many of us, was a lifeline during some of the more challenging times in our lives,” Unger reflected.
Proceeds from the banquet will go towards updating the organization’s fleet of vehicles.
“All of our vehicles, except for one, are aging on us. It’s a good idea to upgrade that fleet. Every department uses fully accessible vehicles, whether it’s a handi-van, minivan, or SUV. We also have homes without vehicles, or staff are using their own vehicles,” Potter explained.
The goal is to raise $50,000 for these essential upgrades. The vehicles drive everywhere from Winkler to Morris and Emerson, for trips to the store, jobs in the community, activities, medical appointments, or out-of-town events.
“Some of our residential fleets don’t go as far, but we do go on some big holidays with them. Residential for sure needs some new vehicles, as the smaller vans are getting very high in kilometers,” Potter noted.
The evening’s entertainment was provided by stand-up comedian and mental health advocate Big Daddy Tazz, who inspired the crowd to keep a sense of humor despite their circumstances, and to never underestimate the value of support from those around them.
As the evening wore on, the sense of community and support was evident.
“It was a very personal night. We had some personal accounts and focused on our client involvement. People ask, ‘What does this mean to clients?’ and ‘What does donating look like?’ It’s really all about support, and why it makes such a difference for them,” Potter said.
“We’re grateful for all our supporters. We wouldn’t be here without them today. This event truly showed us how many people are here to help us continue our mission and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.”
