The PA Funtastic Sports Society donated $35,000 to a handful of Alberni Valley charities in October, after hosting another successful Canada Day slo-pitch tournament.
The society held its annual charity event Oct. 21 at the Kin Hut in Port Alberni. “We are closing in on $250,000 that has been donated in the last nine years,” Funtastic Alberni executive director Paul Robertson said.
Receiving donations this year were the Port Alberni Backpack Program, ADSS Breakfast Club and the Read and Feed Breakfast Program, Port Alberni Special Olympics, AV Minor Lacrosse, youth basketball, ADSS Athletic Program, AV Minor Softball, Girls U-19 Fastball, Alberni Teens Can Rock, the Zattzoo Music Project, Elite Dance Academy, Community Arts Council of the Alberni Valley, Port Alberni Toy Run, Port Alberni Kinsmen and the Community First Aid Trailer.
“A $1000 bursary was also given to a graduating student who answered our skill-testing question, What does Funtastic’s motto ‘Building a Better Community Through Sport’ mean to you?”
Funtastic also donated $2000 to CMHA for four families who could use a little help before Christmas. Each family will receive $500 in mid-December, as well as $250 gift cards for Tyler’s No Frills, and Walmart.
“There is also $5,000 that we have earmarked for upgrades to the dugouts on Sweeney Field. We are hoping to work with Parks and Rec on that project in the spring,” Robertson said.
This year’s Wayne Demoskoff Volunteer Of The Year was presented by Demoskoff to Heather Newton. “We all know how important volunteering is to so many events that are constantly looking for help,” said Robertson. “If you have time and are able, please reach out and lend a hand to one of the many events held annually here in town. There is no better way to give back to our community than helping out.”
The PA Funtastic Sports Society hosted 80 teams—roughly 1,200 players—this year. The organization anticipates hosting 80 teams here again for the 34th Annual Okee Dokee Slo-Pitch Tournament and Funtastic Music Festival that will be held on June 29 to July 1, 2024.
Funtastic will also be sponsoring Winter Wonderland again this year with a skating session on Dec. 21.