LAC LA BICHE - Last Thursday, a full slate of more than 140 golfers and supporters of the The Road To Hope organization from across the region hit the fairways at the Athabasca Golf and Country Club for the annual regional fundraiser.
Organizers estimate the event, which draws on volunteer, donor and participant support from across the Lac La Biche and Athabasca areas, can raise $25,000.
The Road To Hope organization offers no-charge transportation to residents in the Athabasca and Lac La Biche region going to cancer treatment appointments. Volunteer drivers offer rides in their own vehicle, the client's vehicle, or the Road To Hope van that is sponsored by the Lac La Biche Kinsmen Club.
In 2022, more than 33,000 kilometres were driven by a crew of just 10 volunteer drivers.
Based on early numbers from 2023, Road To Hope Coordinator Jessica Wallace estimates the distance driven and number of clients will increase this year.
“We have finished quarter one this year with 11,122, so there is a definite upward trend which means our services are a much-needed support for our rural communities,” she said.
Since the organization began in 2008, hundreds of clients across the region have used the service.
The not-for-profit society relies on donations and fundraising as well as some grant funding to provide the services.
The Road To Hope organization accepts donations throughout the year.
