Open Door Bed Races kick-off launches team entries
Tuesday, August 14th, 2012
The action is revving up for the Camrose Open Door Association's Harvest Gala and Bed Races.
A kick-off barbecue at Creative Bedrooms on Friday, Aug. 10, was held to promote the Harvest Gala on Friday, Sept. 28, at the Norsemen Inn and to gather teams for the seventh annual bed races on Saturday, Sept. 29, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Camrose Regional Exhibition.
About $20,000 was raised at the bed races last year. "The bed race is an event that fits closely with our mission to meet the needs of youth who find themselves at risk. Housing is a key aspect of our support for local youth. The bed race idea began as a great way to raise fun and funds to provide local youth with supportive housing," said Open Door executive director Randal Nickel.
To enter a group in the bed races, it takes a team of five people and a bed that could be anything from a crib to a coffin. The team raises pledges prior to the event and then races the bed in several heats on the day of the event.
"We not only want teams to enter, but to challenge others to participate in the event as well," added Randal. "We are hoping for about 12 teams this year."
Randal would like to see 12 teams entered this year and it is the Open Door's goal to raise $25,000. The Church of God Youth Group is the defending champion and holder of the prestigious bedspring trophy. Scotiabank is the two-time defending fundraising champion and holder of the esteemed stuffed mattress trophy. Used beds may be available from Creative Bedrooms if you need help getting started.
The Harvest Gala had about 170 people attend last year, but about 250 could attend this year. MP Kevin Sorenson will be handling the auction of donated items. "We think it will be a great event. Teacher-comedian Ken Valgardson will be the emcee and provide us with some entertainment," Randal said. "It should be fun and a non-alcohol event. It matches our theme of helping youth."
Mission auction funds buy a bed for the teens and tax receipts can be issued. Some Cafe Connections dessert items may also end up in the auction.
Contact Randal, Shauna Arrowsmith at Creative Bedrooms or Open Door office manager Sam Backus if you are interested in participating in the bed races or need an information package. Email director@camroseopendoor.com, Twitter www.twitter.com/OpenDoorED or phone 780-679-6803 for details.
