Making a Difference at Home and Around the World
Making a Difference at Home and Around the World
The Gratitude Project
The Gratitude Project seeks to empower and elevate the generosity of people in our community who are quietly doing amazing things to help others and make the Okanagan Valley a truly wonderful place to live.
Looking towards the helpers and those who give back without recognition, the Gratitude Project seeks to level up acts of service and generosity through matching donations to charities in honour of those who give back so selflessly.
We want to elevate giving, uplift volunteers, and celebrate the “do gooders,” by capturing people at their best, cheering on their generosity through donations, and in turn inspiring others to continue to do the work of community building.
Even the smallest of acts of kindness can make waves and have a huge impact!
GENEROSITY and GRATITUDE have long been central pillars of the Stober Foundation’s mission. The Gratitude Project is simply an extension of that but on a grassroots level.
What began as an idea bounced around at a coffee shop, the Gratitude Project has evolved into a growing movement to inspire others and reward generosity. The Stober Foundation has set aside significant funding with gratitude in mind and are looking to invest it in our community and the people that make it so special.
If you know of someone who deserves to have their generosity levelled up, please nominate them below. Even the smallest of acts of kindness can make waves and have a huge impact!
Across the Lake!
To say that Conny Stamhuis is an outlier is an understatement. The now 90 year woman, who has called Kelowna home for the last 30 years, has seen a life and a half by most people's standards. And while living a fulfilling life, defined by family, kindness, and living each day to the fullest, one of her proudest accomplishments is to live a life defined by gratitude and generosity. And for Conny, it's not just a motto, it's a lifestyle!
A Trip to Remember
Last summer we had the privilege to meet a young man who had just returned from an epic journey where he was searching for meaning, inspiration, and fulfillment. Little did he know he'd find so much more, while doing good for others along the way.
Trek for Tourettes
This past summer, Cameron set out on the annual Trek for Tourette with the goal of raising awareness and funds for Tourette Canada (formally Tourette Syndrom Foundation of Canada). Not only did he meet his fundraising goal, but he far surpassed it!
The Impact of Overcoming Adversity
Just over 5 years ago, Patrick Ng was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. If left untreated, he was only a few months from death. How he conquered this unimaginable situation is truly inspiring!
Have a Heart
"Any cause is a good cause if you're helping someone else!" 78-year old former patient Gail Lewis underwent triple bypass heart surgery and dedicated 16 years of her life helping others suffering from heart problems.
Getting into the Spirit(s)
As former hospitality workers themselves, Born to Shake owners Shayne and Nicole were sad to see the livelihoods of their industry friends and family suffering as a result of COVID-19. Upon the onset of indoor dining restrictions, Shayne and Nicole decided to take matters into their own hands. They launched a campaign to collect donations to buy local hospitality workers a cocktail at local restaurants in Kelowna.
Pull Up for a Cause
While most people celebrate their birthday by throwing a party, this man spent it where he had his wedding, at the gym! We went to the YMCA gym to watch an ordinary man do an extraordinary challenge, out of compassion and appreciation.
Random Acts of Kindess
For years, Crystal has been encouraging people to share kindness, but now she has an actionable goal with measurable results. We sat down with her and Richelle from BGC Okanagan (formally known as Okanagan Boys and Girls Club) to learn more about Crystal and her impact on the community.
Do What you Love
During the COVID-19 pandemic, most of us found ourselves with a little extra time on our hands. What’s sets Amaan apart is what he did with it. We sat down with him to hear his story and find out what compels him to give back to his community. Keep reading, inspiration is guaranteed!
Flying Drones to Feed Others
When we heard Ryker’s story we couldn’t help but sit down with him to learn a little more. We were inspired by Ryker’s industrious nature and his drive to help the community.
In Memory of Mom
Here at the Stober Foundation, we are blessed to know and meet some pretty incredible humans through our philanthropy journey. A few weeks ago in April, we met someone who really blew us away and we’re inspired and excited to share a bit of his story with you.
The Spirit of Generosity
We all know about Instagram Giveaways. Usually, giveaways work as an enticing way to gain more followers and create strong partnerships, but for Breanna Macdonald of Table Forty-Nine it seemed like a great method to raise money for a worthwhile cause.
Holiday Magic
Jolene Iglesias saw a need in her community and just wanted to give back. With a little help from friends, Jolene was able to collect donations and gifts to make Christmas extra special for families that needed it.
Sending Love to Seniors
It began with two sisters who had a small idea to make Valentine’s cards to give to local seniors on February 14th, but it grew into something much bigger than they could have imagined.
Cleaning Up and Giving Back
Most of us don’t often think about innovative ways to give back to the community while we’re also enjoying our summer vacations. But that’s exactly what Raymond Imbeau and Barbara Kitz did and have continued doing for three summers since the idea sparked.
The Next Generation of Family Philanthropy
Our family foundation was created to help those in need. We have been tremendously blessed to be in the graceful position to help others. As a family, we need to come together and adapt in order to provide support and opportunities for change. In doing so, we can help others become whole, better their circumstances, their lives, and ultimately the lives of so many others through their success. Let us steward with grace, effectively and with great impact.
- Sandra Stober, Foundation Co-Founder