Sutton Group Lakefront Realty in Vernon, B.C. was a sponsor of the inaugural Vernon Vipers’ First Responders Appreciation Night recently. More than 400 firefighters, paramedics, search and rescue workers, tow truck drivers, RCMP officers and fire water bombers enjoyed a free Vipers hockey game.

The game was a way to say thank you to first responders and allow the public to interact with them in a social atmosphere.

Beth Marks, a sales rep at Sutton Group – Lakefront Realty, took a leadership role in organizing the appreciation night.

“These brave individuals risk their lives to keep our community safe and we just want to say how much we appreciate their efforts,” says Marks.

The event also raised $600 for burn victims. Salespeople from the brokerage and their family members sold 50/50 tickets throughout the evening.

In response to a dire need in the region, the office also came up with the concept of the Warm & Fuzzy clothing drive, which is now in its fourth year. The team promoted the weeklong event, held a drive-thru and delivered items.

“This year, we received enough warm jackets, hats, gloves and other clothing to fill most of a cube van,” Marks says. “We met with stakeholders at Howard House who helped us unload the van. The donations of women’s and children’s clothing went to the Women’s Transition House.

Both organizations rely on this annual infusion of warm clothing.”