Paul Docksteader Foundation: Love Where You Live

Charity Classic Title Sponsor, Paul Docksteader, on the power of community and the importance of supporting local causes

For over a decade, the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation Charity Classic has been a cornerstone event in the North Okanagan, bringing together community leaders, local businesses, and dedicated individuals to raise funds to elevate healthcare excellence in our region. At the heart of this effort is Paul Docksteader and The Paul Docksteader Foundation, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in the tournament’s success.

When the family business sold in 2012, Paul Docksteader moved from downtown Vancouver to the Okanagan, embracing a new chapter of life that would focus on giving back to the community. With the founding of the Paul Docksteader Foundation, Paul channeled his passion for helping others into a mission of supporting local causes and making a meaningful impact.

Living in the vibrant community of Predator Ridge, Paul found a perfect setting to grow his Foundation, fostering opportunities and involvement with the local community.

Paul's approach to philanthropy is deeply personal and hands-on. "I really appreciate the opportunity to work together with people, not just be behind the scenes, but be right there at the events, involved with the participants, involved in the event itself."

Paul's journey with the VJH Foundation began when he was approached by his good friends (and former Charity Classic committee members) Mark Kellock and Cliff Oughtred. "It was because of them and their work on the golf committee that inspired me to join forces with them and start this journey.”

For Paul, the most rewarding aspect of supporting the Charity Classic is seeing the incredible generosity of the community. "It's unbelievable to me, the generosity that lives within this community, and it inspires me every year. I come to these events, and I am in disbelief. It's so humbling to see how many people come together.”

As the Charity Classic has grown over the years, so too has the level of support from the community. "It's been amazing to see the growth - not just in the tournament, but in the level of sponsorship from our community.

Paul's message to others is simple yet powerful:

“Love where you live. We all do that. We're blessed to be in this Okanagan community. We're blessed to have this beautiful hospital. It's such a necessary part of how important it is for us to have this in our own backyard. And I can't encourage people enough to get involved at any level, wherever it is, however it is. Every little bit helps.”