Some familiar faces in the West Country are set to be ‘jail birds’ during the upcoming Rocky Chamber Trade Show.
West Country Family Service Association (WCFSA) is bringing back the Jail and Bail fundraiser, inviting local leaders and familiar faces to “serve time” in a mock jail cell at the trade show on May 2 and 3.
Participants will each spend one hour behind bars, using their network of contacts to raise a minimum of $500 in donations for WCFSA’s community programming. Those funds go toward the organizations many local services, including supports that help local seniors, safely age in place.
“It should be a really great event,” said Marina Kulich, executive director of WCFSA, who noted the organization originally considered a dunk tank before deciding on the more interactive and nostalgic format.
Each participant receives a novelty “arrest warrant” citing them for offences such as “being an amazing citizen” and “demonstrating community pride.” The warrant outlines the conditions of their sentence, including the fundraising minimum and jail time during the trade show.
About 15 to 20 individuals are expected to take part, with more being accepted in the weeks ahead. Names will be promoted in a series of “wanted posters” in the lead-up to the event.
Among those confirmed are Len Phillips, acting mayor of Rocky Mountain House; Michelle Swanson, reeve of Clearwater County; Michelle Meatheringham, executive director of the Rocky Chamber; Melissa Reis from the Rocky Mountain House Historic Site; and Moe from 94.5 Rewind Radio.
Also set to appear are Nancy LaPerriere and Randall Sugden from Rocky Credit Union, Rocky town councillor Dave Auld, and Clearwater County councillor Genny Mehlhaff, and other well-known community members.
WCFSA hopes to raise at least $8,000 through the campaign. Funds will support privately funded programs that rely heavily on community donations to keep client fees low.
The fundraiser will take place throughout both days of the Rocky Trade Show.
Additional participants or nominations are still welcome by contacting the WCFSA office directly at 403-845-2033.
The WCFSA booth at the 2024 Rocky Chamber Trade Show. (West Country Family Service Association)
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