VICA’s AnnuAl ChrIstmAs lunCheon goes VIrAl

VICA’s Annual Christmas Luncheon goes virtual

For almost two decades, the annual VICA Christmas Luncheon has been the kick-off for the holiday season. This festive affair features friends, foods, laughs, and cheers as we celebrate the past year’s successes. While the merriment and celebration are an important part of the luncheon, ultimately the driving force behind this event is the opportunity to give back to our communities though charitable donations.

As we were unable to host in-person events, some might have thought we would have forgone this year’s celebration. However, knowing that 2020 was one of the most difficult years for families in need, we had to persevere and find a way to support the community. So, keeping on-trend, we pivoted using virtual means.

Abiding by COVID protocol, we had catered lunches delivered to each of the participating member companies throughout the island. After everyone had enjoyed their lunch, we all hopped on Zoom for some kind words from Rory, a game of virtual bingo, and prize raffle draw. The Zoom meeting went as well as one could imagine with plenty of, “oh you’re on mute” moments and some technical mishaps, but hey, it is 2020.

Most importantly, through event sponsorship, registration, and prize raffle, VICA members raised over $13,000 for our Kids in Need initiative —$500 more than our 2019 total! The money raised was then distributed to inner-city schools in Victoria and Nanaimo, helping families in need through the holiday season and throughout 2021.

In addition to the funds raised through our virtual luncheon, $12,625 was donated in cash and toys through our annual Toy Drive. This amount almost doubles last year’s total with 34 member companies participating. The donations were distributed to CFAX Santa’s Anonymous, the Ladysmith Resource Centre, Nanaimo Toy Drive, and Holiday Hamper Drive in Courtenay.

While 2020 had its share of lows, our 2020 Christmas Luncheon will hopefully be remembered as the silver-tinsel lining which brought members together and demonstrated the charitability of the construction industry. n