YANA Big Love Benefit Changes Due to Continued COVID Restrictions
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From the infancy of our planning for a COVID-friendly version of the Big Love Benefit this year, the committee of YANA volunteers and staff committed to doing everything humanly possible to virtually recreate as many of the magical elements of the “normal” event as possible, all while following prescribed health protocols to keep everyone involved safe.
From day one, we agreed to plan for the best-case scenario and to be prepared to adjust according to provincial and regional COVID restrictions as needed. We were collectively hoping for a return to “Safe Six” and to a less restrictive definition of events. Over the past few weeks, as it started looking more and more like restrictions would not be loosened, we started working further with Island Health to develop a safety plan that would go over and above all requirements. The goal was to allow YANA supporters to view the Big Love Live Broadcast with their core bubbles from home and from restaurants as planned.
As you can imagine, with the recent extension of the Provincial Health Orders, no specific reconsideration date given, and less than 3 weeks to the February 26 broadcast, our committee was faced with a tough decision.
Island Health has spent significant time listening with open minds and hearts to our innovative method of supporting local restaurants as viewing locations for a virtual broadcast. Without previous precedent or other models to use as templates, although things were continuing in the right direction, we’ve simply run out of time.
With the resources and time remaining, we’ve decided to remove the restaurant venues from our ticketing options and convert previously purchased venue tables to gourmet home parties for up to 6 core-bubble (immediate household) attendees.
We are extremely grateful for the generosity and flexibility of all those that have purchased restaurant venue tables. We will be reaching out in the days ahead to provide the details on the alternative options available to you.
There are great options for everyone who wants to participate in the Big Love Benefit!
Link by Donation: When you visit the YANA Tickit Store, you will see the “Live Broadcast & Auction Link” by donation. Remember that every dollar donated is matched by Brian McLean Chevrolet Buick GMC up to $15,000!
Home Parties: You’ll also notice that a limited number of “Hosted Home Party for Six” have been added. To host a Home Party, you and those in your core bubble (immediate household) would view the live-stream broadcast on a smart TV or laptop etc, and bid on the auction items from each person’s personal hand-held device. Home Parties are $750.00 and include a gourmet antipasto/charcuterie board, delicate desserts, bubbly to toast, and the ingredients for the Signature Cocktail. Please contact YANA if an alternate menu option is required.
If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to contact me directly at 250-871-0343 or kellybarnie@yanacomoxvalley.com. We are incredibly grateful for your continued support and flexibility as we adapt, adjust, and persevere our way ahead. Our YANA families find it within themselves to do this every day, and we thank you for standing with us so we can stand with them no matter what.
Kelly Barnie
Executive Director, YANA (You Are Not Alone)
For More Information and to purchase tickets, see: YANA Big Love Benefit