Big Hill Haven in Cochrane has launched a new fundraiser to celebrate the local business community while raising funds to help support those who have experienced domestic violence.
The BIZ 4 HER sponsorship program has been designed to showcase businesses dedicated to making a difference in the community and actively helping to end domestic abuse, according to Big Hill Haven's fund development officer, Tara McFadden.
“Big Hill Haven is grateful for the many businesses that have stepped up,” McFadden said. “The goal of this program is to generate needed funding for the services and shelter we provide, but also to recognize the businesses that help us.
“These are challenging times for everyone and we need to support each other where we can.”
BIZ 4 HER secured its first sponsorship from Canlin Energy Corporation. The gold level support from Canlin is a welcomed and exciting opportunity, McFadden said. The organization has been a consistent supporter of Big Hill Haven for many years and the $5,000 they have donated will help the non-profit to provide support and shelter for women and families affected by domestic violence.
“Canlin Energy joined the BIZ 4 HER sponsorship program because we have a responsibility to support the communities where we work and operate,” said Tim Adams, District Superintendent at Wildcat Hills Gas Plant. “It is an honour to be the first BIZ 4 HER community partner and I urge any and all businesses in and around Cochrane to follow suit. This program allows us to make a positive, measurable impact and is an incredible opportunity to ensure the safety of women and children in our community.”
Calgary-based Bon Ton Meat Market has signed up as a silver-level sponsor.
Big Hill Haven is grateful for the growing support in the community, McFadden said, because they know it is a tough time for people and businesses – both mentally and financially.
“It’s tight times and we really appreciate those people that are finding a way to make a difference. Every dollar makes a difference,” McFadden said.
Businesses can annually sponsor Big Hill Haven through the BIZ 4 Her program. Businesses will be recognized for their support in various ways, including partnership promotional material, recognition on the Big Hill Haven website, social media promotion, opportunities to participate in fundraising events and media exposure.
Big Hill Haven offers four sponsorship tiers ranging from platinum to bronze. Businesses in every tier will receive a decal to put in their window and a certificate to showcase the partnership with the non-profit.
At the highest tier, business will be able to participate in a 20-minute chat on Urban Casual discussing their work and domestic violence. They will also receive recognition in Big Hill Haven radio ads.
Big Hill Haven launched in 2016 as a way to address the lack of safe shelter and resources for women and families fleeing or living with domestic violence in Cochrane and west Rocky View County. It remains the sole organization with a mandate to respond to those experiencing domestic abuse.
The non-profit operates in Cochrane, Stoney Nakoda, Bragg Creek, Redwood Meadows, Springbank, Ghost Village and other communities, serving a population of more than 50,000 people. The non-profit provides service supports and resources for those experiencing or fleeing domestic abuse.
From October to December 2020, Big Hill Haven was able to support 22 clients and provide 150 nights of shelter, according to McFadden. These numbers indicate the need for domestic violence services is continuing to rise.
“Domestic violence really knows no boundaries and Big Hill Haven focuses not only on Cochrane but the rural area around us – domestic violence has touched people in a lot of ways and it's more common than we talk about,” she said. “People see the need and they want to be part of making a difference.”
For more information on BIZ 4 HER visit bighillhaven.com/biz4her or contact McFadden at [email protected]
