The Paul Docksteader Foundation: Making a Positive Difference in Our Community
The Paul Docksteader Foundation, a philanthropic organization founded in 2012, remains steadfast in its commitment to making a positive impact in the local community. With a vision to share and create a difference, the Foundation has become a pillar of support within the Vernon community.
"When we created our vision statement back in 2012, we aimed to dedicate ourselves to making a positive difference in the spirit of the community in which we live," shared Paul Docksteader, the visionary behind the Foundation. This mission continues to guide the Foundation's initiatives, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the betterment of Vernon.
Left to right: Chris Carter, John Durrant, Paul Docksteader, John Bokitch
One of the ways The Paul Docksteader Foundation connects with the local community is by remaining open to new opportunities. Docksteader believes in embracing evolving commitments, developing projects, and nurturing existing partnerships. "Beyond our ongoing commitments, we are always looking for new projects that resonate with us or have personal significance," stated Docksteader. ”The opportunity to work with, learn from, share and make a difference, is at the core of the passion I have for all of this. I like to say, it’s not “what we do - but more importantly “how” we do it.”
Docksteader's involvement with the Vernon Jubilee Hospital (VJH) Foundation’s Charity Classic Tournament is a testament to the Foundation's dedication to the community. After relocating to Vernon from the Lower Mainland in 2012, Docksteader learned about the Charity Classic through his friend Mark Kellock, who was part of the organizing committee at that time. Open to new opportunities, Docksteader initially became a Gold Sponsor in 2015 before eventually stepping into the role of Title Sponsor in 2017.
As a resident of Predator Ridge and a self-professed golf enthusiast, Docksteader saw the Charity Classic as the perfect opportunity for his Foundation to contribute meaningfully to the local community. The tournament's primary beneficiary, the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation, aligned perfectly with the Foundation's goal of making a positive impact.
Left to right: Paul Docksteader and Kelly Hrudey
Reflecting on the Foundation's long-standing support of the Charity Classic, Docksteader said, "It's not just about the cause; it's about the great people who come together to do something remarkable.” He emphasized the importance of like-minded, passionate, and caring individuals working collectively to improve the lives of others in the community. Docksteader expressed, “I am continually astounded by the kindness, the generosity, and the spirit that is alive and well in our (growing) home that we call Vernon, and of course our local hospital foundation."
The annual Charity Classic has seen continuous growth and has become a platform to raise awareness and support for healthcare throughout the North Okanagan. Docksteader eagerly anticipates each year's event, not only for the opportunity to witness the remarkable progress but also to reconnect with familiar faces and express gratitude to everyone involved.
"I am continually inspired by the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes from giving back," Docksteader shared. Believing that everyone has the power to make a difference in their own unique way, he emphasized the significance of collective effort in creating a better community. "Giving back is one of life's greatest gifts, and we are all capable of it." Docksteader remarked, underscoring the potential for positive change that lies within each individual.
The Foundation's involvement in the Charity Classic has resulted in several successful initiatives. One notable initiative is the "Fund a Need" program, which allows donors to support the purchase of smaller items throughout the hospital and healthcare centres that are urgently needed. Docksteader notes, “To be able to actually touch and feel the resources that are being funded, has brought a sense of real human connection to all of the fundraising activities.” By experiencing the impact of their contributions firsthand, individuals develop a deeper connection to the cause and gain a greater understanding of its significance.
Docksteader also highlighted the importance of recognizing individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, hard work, and dedication; he notes, “There is a legacy at work here, many others have come long before, and there will be many after.” He acknowledged the contributions of people like Cliff Oughtred, who played a vital role in the Charity Classic's original success, and expressed gratitude for the ongoing support of Margot France, Oughtred's wife.
Looking towards the future, Docksteader envisions a continued need for initiatives like the Charity Classic, and the support of organizations like the Paul Docksteader Foundation. He stressed the importance of maintaining momentum and increasing awareness to ensure a sustainable healthcare system for the community.
Left to right: Chris Carter, Paul Docksteader, Don Scarr, John Durrant
Docksteader emphasized that the Charity Classic is not just about the event itself, but also about the long-lasting impact it creates. "We strive to provide great value, not just on the day of the tournament, but also through the accumulated results," he stated. His Foundation is committed to delivering tangible outcomes that lead to continued positive impacts on healthcare services for all residents of Vernon.
In addition to heavily supporting the Charity Classic, the Paul Docksteader Foundation organizes the sponsor recognition event, an occasion to express gratitude to the sponsors who play a crucial role in the Charity Classic event. Docksteader looks forward to this event as an opportunity to personally connect with sponsors, thank them for their efforts, and acknowledge their significant contributions. He understands that without their generous support, the impact that this event generates would not be possible.
Left to right: Chris Carter, Paul Docksteader, Tony Parsons, John Bokitch
Docksteader's passion for community involvement and making a difference is evident in his words and actions. He firmly believes that the success of any philanthropic endeavor relies on the collective efforts of individuals, organizations, and the community as a whole. “The old adage of “it takes a village” is not only something I believe in, but also clearly understand just how necessary it all is. None of us does this walk alone," he notes, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and unity.
As the Paul Docksteader Foundation continues to forge ahead, its unwavering dedication to the North Okanagan community remains at the forefront. His Foundation's involvement in the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation’s Charity Classic, along with its support of various causes, reflects their commitment to creating a positive impact. With a shared vision and a strong sense of community, his Foundation, along with its sponsors and supporters, is poised to make a lasting difference in Vernon, leaving a legacy of compassion, kindness, and excellence in healthcare for years to come.
He notes, “Everyone can give back, in their own way, and the sense of pride, and accomplishment, is something that inspires us all, at every level. Giving back - it’s one of life's greatest gifts, and something that we are all capable of doing.”
To learn more about the Paul Docksteader Foundation and its endeavors, visit their website at www.pauldocksteaderfoundation.ca or visit them on Facebook.