Charity Classic Breaks New Fundraising Record

Funds raised by the 15th Annual Charity Classic golf tournament will support vital healthcare innovation in the North Okanagan, including improved colon cancer screening using AI technology

The Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who made the 15th anniversary of the Charity Classic Golf Tournament, held on August 25, 2024, an incredible success. This year’s tournament was truly unforgettable, raising $425,000 — a new record in the event’s history.

“We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day or a more fantastic group of people to help us celebrate this milestone,” said Kate McBrearty, Executive Director of the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation. “The energy, positivity and generosity that flowed throughout the day and evening were beyond anything we could have imagined. To all our participants, volunteers, sponsors, and behind-the-scene supporters ‘thank you’ doesn’t quite suffice for making this our most amazing year yet.”

The Foundation extends special thanks to title sponsor, The Paul Docksteader Foundation, and venue sponsor, Predator Ridge Resort, for their unwavering support. “Your commitment to making this event the best in the Okanagan and your generosity have always been the heart of this event,” added McBrearty. “Together, we’re making such an impact; we’re bringing meaningful improvements to healthcare in our community.”

Funds raised will support vital healthcare innovations, including improved colon cancer screening using AI technology, which means faster treatment, better outcomes, and, ultimately, greater cancer prevention for residents of the North Okanagan.

In addition to technology to enhance cancer screening, this year’s tournament will fund a substantial list of urgently needed medical equipment and technology identified by medical staff — from surgical tools and specialized mobility devices to equipment used to monitor a baby’s heartbeat in utero.

“This event is living proof that when we do the right things, we create a spark that can have a lasting positive influence on the lives of those around us,” Paul Docksteader. “To date, this event has raised more than $3.7 million to advance healthcare excellence. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be part of it and to work alongside those who give their time and talent to making the Charity Classic so successful.”

Record-setting fundraising at this year's Charity Classic golf tournament means VJH will be the first hospital in the Interior to acquire new AI technology for improved colon cancer screening. Watch Dr. Misha Horkoff and colon cancer survivor, Jessica Lewis, discuss the impact of AI technology in cancer screening.