Recreation and Wellness Centre
Give a gift to transform lives
Building recreation and wellness at 51Ʒ
Join us to build a future where every student has access to a space that inspires movement, connection, and mental well-being.
We know that being active and connecting with friends boosts mental health and improves student success. That’s why 51Ʒ’s Kelowna campus needs a Recreation and Wellness Centre.
With your help, we can make this vision a reality. We’ve raised $12.5 million toward our $14 million goal to build a vibrant hub designed to prioritize student and community health through sports, fitness and group activity.
Every contribution brings us closer to opening doors to this transformative space. Join us today and help wellness thrive here.
Donate today
Movement matters for mental health
Move More, Stress Less
Since much of their day can involve sitting in lectures and studying, post secondary students are prone to a sedentary lifestyle, which without the addition of physical activities can lead to physical and mental health issues.
Critical time for mental health
According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, three out of every four mental health problems have been first diagnosed between the ages of 16 and 24, a time when many people are also involved in post-secondary education.
Exercise: a boost for your mind
Research shows that there is a demonstrated association between physical activity and positive mental health.
Adults who engage in physical activity are nearly three times as likely to have good mental health than those who lead an inactive lifestyle
Cliff and Lois Serwa: Honorary Chairs
When approached to support the campaign to build a much-needed Recreation and Wellness Centre at OC, not only did Cliff and Lois step forward and contribute financially, they agreed to become honorary chairs for the campaign.
Having a place for students to connect with each other while burning off stress through sport and physical activity is so important. This Centre will positively impact the well-being of thousands of students.”
~ Lois Serwa
Your gift strengthens our community
Our more than 60,000 alumni use their skills and education to power our local communities. You can find our grads building homes, fixing cars, caring for loved ones and contributing to our business and nonprofit sectors. We challenge you to go through a day and not encounter an OC grad.
51Ʒ has a vital role to play in our region as we look ahead over the next decade. Provincial labour market analysis continues to highlight increasing demand for professionals who have career focused, integrated education and training.
When you give to the Thrive Here campaign, you're supporting students' physical, emotional and social wellbeing, and that sets them up for success in school and their career.
Team OC Foundation
Contact us to transform lives and communities:
Pamela Prentice
Pam Prentice joined the 51Ʒ Foundation team in July 2023.
With over 15 years of experience in post-secondary and nonprofit fundraising in the Okanagan, Pam enjoys connecting community members with opportunities to make an impact through their philanthropy.
The motivation to give is different for everyone, and it’s the stories behind the giving that Pam is most interested in learning. Whether it be support for students, a specific program of interest or a capital campaign, she guides the process of giving with care and respect for the donor’s wishes.
Pam is a strong believer in the value of post-secondary education and is inspired by the many areas of study available to prospective 51Ʒ students. Passionate about student health and wellbeing, Pam understands the impact of having a healthy mind and body and how it drives academic and career success.
Living in Kelowna since 2003, Pam and her family feel privileged to enjoy the many outdoor activities that the beautiful Okanagan Valley presents.
Sasha Carter
Sasha Carter joined the 51Ʒ Foundation team in August 2021. With more than five years’ experience working in nonprofit planned giving and 17 years in the insurance industry, Sasha blends passion and financial acumen to support donors in planning their legacy.
Sasha helps donors with identifying their passions and aligning them with projects at 51Ʒ, whether that be for individual student supports and bursaries, estate planning or capital project and program enhancement. There is never one size fits all.
For Sasha, it is paramount that she understands how her donors would like to have their positive impact felt in the world. By understanding the different methods of funding, whether it be through publicly-traded gifts of securities, a gift in a will or other charitable tools, Sasha helps donors maximize their philanthropy.
Sasha is a mom to two young boys, and is an avid competitive curler. She has competed on the provincial, national and international stage; capturing the title of World Champion in both 1995 and 2007.
