Annual On the Lawn fundraiser returns after two-year pandemic hiatus

Photo: Elevation Outdoors

After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Elevation Outdoor's annual lawn-bowling fundraiser is returning this summer.

The sixth-annual On the Lawn event will kick off in July at the lawn-bowling fields in Kelowna's City Park. Twenty teams of four will compete over four weeks in July and August, while raising thousands of dollars for Elevation Outdoors.

“We cannot wait to see everyone back On the Lawn again this summer,” said Mike Greet, executive director of Elevation Outdoors.

“We have missed getting together and having a great time all for a great cause, and this year’s event is lining up to be the best one yet.”

Elevation Outdoors provides underprivileged youth in the community the opportunity to learn a number of new sports, like snowboarding, rock-climbing, sailing and mountain biking. Without Elevation Outdoors, many of the youth wouldn't have the opportunity to try these sports, due to the financial barriers they carry.

“The money raised helps us provide access to mentorship and recreation programs at no cost to so many deserving youth in our community that may otherwise never have a chance to gain the valuable life experiences our programs provide,” Greer said.

Over the past five previous On the Lawn events, more than $100,000 has been raised for the non-profit organization. This year's fundraiser will help fund 85 full scholarships for youth to access programs.

Team registration for the On the Lawn opens April 21 at 9 a.m. Registration for teams looking to participate in two weeks of play costs $250 while four weeks costs $450.