JCI Kootenay is proud to announce a donation of $4,140 to the Cranbrook Food Bank as part of its annual commitment to donate the proceeds from the JCI Kootenay Santa Claus Parade.

The 54th Annual Santa Claus Parade, held on November 29, 2025, brought an estimated 3,000 people to Downtown Cranbrook to enjoy more than 40 festive floats. The long-standing holiday tradition once again united the community in celebration while supporting an important local cause.

This year, JCI Kootenay expanded its fundraising efforts by introducing two additional initiatives: a Toonie Drive and a Reverse Advent Calendar. The Reverse Advent Calendar proved especially successful, collecting more than 500 pounds of food, valued at approximately $1,800, for the Cranbrook Food Bank.

Julie Rose, Executive Director of the Cranbrook Food Bank, shared her appreciation: “We are incredibly grateful to JCI for their continued support of the Cranbrook Food Bank and our mission of a hunger-free Cranbrook. The JCI Santa Claus Parade is a cherished Cranbrook tradition that brings our community together, young and old alike, regardless of socioeconomic background, to celebrate the magic of the season.

“This year, we were thrilled to partner with JCI on the Reverse Advent Calendar, which was a huge success, collecting over 500 pounds of food valued at over $1,800. We also joined forces for the Toonie Drive before the parade and found even more joy in giving back through chocolate and candy canes, which may just be the start of a new holiday tradition for our two organizations.

“We know events like this take countless volunteer hours, often from people balancing full-time jobs, and we deeply appreciate every effort behind the scenes.

“At the Cranbrook Food Bank, we truly are by community, for community—and the ongoing support from groups like JCI makes all the difference.”

Shane Nickel-Thibodeau, Co-Chair of the 2025 Santa Claus Parade, expressed his gratitude for the community’s support: “We were thrilled with this year’s response from the community, both for the parade and the food drive. Seeing everyone come together in support of such an important cause is what makes this event so special. We’re already looking forward to November and doing it all again. It truly is an honour to be a part of such an amazing project!”

Rebecca Odnokon, Co-Chair of the 2025 Santa Claus Parade, reflected on the evening’s success: “The turnout exceeded our expectations, and the energy from the crowd was incredible. Events like this simply don’t happen without dedicated volunteers and strong community support. I’m so proud to have been part of such a heartwarming Cranbrook tradition.”

JCI Kootenay is a local not-for-profit organization focused on professional and leadership development for individuals ages 18 to 40. Through community initiatives, signature events, and volunteer-driven projects, JCI Kootenay empowers young leaders while giving back to the community. Its members are proud to play an active role in making Cranbrook a better place for all.

Lead image: Pictured left to right – Sven Sloeserwij, Rebecca Odnokon, Shane Nickel-Thibodeau, Julie Rose and Jessie Selwood. JCI Kootenay photo

JCI Kootenay

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