Four months ahead of their trek to Mount Everest Base Camp, Mark and Helen Jones have launched a fundraising campaign for the trip. They’ve committed to donating all funds raised to Adaptive Sports Sun Peaks (ASSP) and to help have partnered with Vertical Cafè, launching a Cookies for a Cause fundraiser.
Helen approached the cafè asking if they would be interested in collaborating on a fundraiser for ASSP not knowing what it could look like. Vertical’s new owners Rob and Tania O’Toole came up with the cookie sale idea.
“This is something we’re going to do semi-annually. We’ll do one in the summer and one in the winter and change up the charity each time,” said Rob.
The cafè sold over 500 chocolate chip cookies adorned with a pink heart for $1.50 donating all proceeds to the Jones’ fundraising efforts.
“We’ll be making cookies throughout the day. If somebody’s looking to buy a single cookie or a couple cookies they’re fine to just walk up. If someone is looking to (buy) a dozen or two dozen that would be something we’d prefer to have a pre-order,” he said.
Sales kicked off June 30 at the Farmers Market with sales reaching roughly 190 cookies before noon. The Joneses said the support received from the cafè is humbling, especially as the first recipients of what will be a semi-annual fundraiser for charities in the community.
“All the businesses around here are so generous. They’re all so good at giving back to the community,” said Mark.
The fall trek will be the second climb Mark and Helen have completed for the Adaptive Sports program, previously climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. The pair is looking to raise $5,000 this year.
“Adaptive Sports operates with a $61,000 budget, most of which relies on grants, donors, and fundraising events throughout the year,” said ASSP program manager Jenny Hawes. “We are always looking for fresh new ideas for fundraising and this totally fits the bill…What a fantastic way to keep the momentum going for Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks! We are so grateful for Vertical Cafe and Mark and Helen Jones’ initiative…Let the cookie grams begin.”
Cookie sales continue at Vertical Cafè until all have sold, the Joneses have also launched a GoFundMe page and are accepting donations for ASSP.
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