The Society of Organized Services in Oceanside is looking to raise over $600,000 in operational funding to send kids to camps and provide other recreational experiences. (SOS)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

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PARKSVILLE — It’s a lofty goal, but a crucial one for many families in the Oceanside region.

The Society for Organized Services (SOS), which serves hundreds of families across School District 69, are looking to raise $610,000 to support their operational expenses for their near-endless suite of programs and services.

Lissa Alexander, communications manager for SOS, said this campaign is dubbed ‘All In For Kids’ focuses on camp experiences for kids, empowering them to be curious, adventurous and engaged.

“There’s a lot of families in the area that have told us they wouldn’t have been able to put their kids in these activities if it wasn’t for us, and how it builds so much. It builds their self-esteem and their confidence, cooperation, and resiliency, all of those things.”

In addition to SOS camp experiences the Society also links families with external camps through funding and community connections.

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Alexander said many people are away of SOS’ free child and family programming, but many aren’t aware about how the Society works with others for different recreational experiences.

“Activities like swimming lessons, gymnastics, hockey, soccer, summer camps, that kind of thing.”

A legacy concert, held Wednesday, June 28, helped draw more attention to the campaign in addition to celebrating the 55th anniversary of the Society in Oceanside.

Among the many fundraising avenues SOS hopes to utilize to $610,000, Parksville-based glass artist Robert Held created a number of glass orbs which were sold for $100 each.

Some still remain for purchase through SOS.

“They’re really beautiful, there’s a feather floating looks like bubbles surrounding it,” Alexander added.

All In 4 Kids will run through to around November when more holiday-themed programming will take over.

Alexander said each year, hundreds of families benefit from the experiences SOS is either able to help fund or provide directly each year.

More information on the campaign, including how to donate, is available on the Society’s website.

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