SOEC Complex Celebrates Volunteers Behind Penticton’s Biggest Events During National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week (April 19 to 25) is a Canada-wide celebration recognizing the contributions of volunteers and the positive impact they make in communities. At the South Okanagan Events Centre (SOEC) Complex, which includes the South Okanagan Events Centre and Penticton Trade and Convention Centre, volunteers play a key role in supporting events year-round.

From sold-out concerts and hockey games to multi-day conventions and community gatherings, volunteers from local non-profit organizations help bring events to life while raising funds for causes that benefit the community. Through partnerships with these groups, the SOEC Complex is able to deliver memorable experiences while supporting organizations that serve the community.

Two programs at the SOEC Complex connect local groups with these opportunities: the Volunteer Parking Program and the Food and Beverage Fundraising Program.

Volunteer Parking Program

The Complex currently partners with more than 20 community groups to help staff parking operations during events. Groups of eight or more volunteers, including dry grad committees, dance groups, sports teams, Scouts, and service clubs, commit approximately four hours during an event and receive a donation in return.

In addition to raising funds, participating groups gain valuable visibility while ensuring guests have a welcoming and organized experience upon arrival at the Complex.

Food and Beverage Fundraising Program

Non-profit organizations can also participate through the Food and Beverage Department’s Fundraising Program, where volunteers staff concession stands and portable bars during major events at the South Okanagan Events Centre and Penticton Trade and Convention Centre.

Depending on the event, groups provide between eight and 24 volunteers and raise funds through a share of net concession sales, along with possible tips and gratuities earned during the event.

“Our partnership with local non-profit organizations is something we truly value,” said Dean Clarke, General Manager of the SOEC Complex and Regional Vice President for Oak View Group. “These volunteer programs create a direct connection between our events and the community, providing real impact for the organizations involved.”

Over the years, a number of local organizations have participated in these programs, including Quota International of Penticton Service Club Society, the Auxiliary to the Penticton Regional Hospital, Learning for Little People Pre-School, and the Penticton Harlequins, among many others.

A long-standing and valued partner is the South Okanagan’s Breast Cancer Survivor Dragon Boat Team, The Survivorship, who regularly volunteer on the Suite Level at the SOEC. The group receives a donation for their volunteer work, with funds helping support the team’s training and competition costs, allowing members to continue their journey together both on and off the water.

How to Get Involved

As the SOEC Complex continues to host a busy calendar of concerts, sporting events, and conventions throughout the year, new non-profit organizations are always welcome to take part. Community groups interested in volunteer opportunities are encouraged to contact soec-guestservices@oakviewgroup.com for more information.

The SOEC Complex is proud to work alongside volunteers who help make events possible while strengthening community organizations that make Penticton a vibrant place to live.