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Shoppers invited to mall in Langley for charity shopping

Rotary wine festival and charity shopping night merged into one big fundraiser
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Santa will pay visit at Willowbrook Shopping Mall’s seventh annual charity shopping night. (Langley Advance Times files)

Two of the most popular holiday season events are joining forces with the goal of making both more successful.

Holiday Glamorama on Saturday, Nov. 19 is the annual charity shopping night at Willowbrook Shopping Centre, and that’s being held in conjunction with the wine festival put on by the Rotary Club of Langley Central.

In the past, the Rotary Club has hosted the wine tasting event independently, raising about $15,000 every year, and about $1 million over a period of 30 years. But, for the first time, the event will be organized in conjunction with the mall’s charity shopping night.

Rotarian Stew McIvor of Rotary said the decision was made based on a suggestion from mall management, who said the partnership would help the charities attract more shoppers.

McIvor agreed. He said the new partnership is expected to make the event more engaging and attractive.

“Although [the partnership] is happening for the first time, we hope to make it a long-term project,” he commented.

McIvor shared that his club is hoping to raise about $50,000, which will help them support other local charities throughout the year.

The charity shopping night has been a popular way for people looking for holiday sales and a fun night out to help local causes.

On Saturday, Nov. 19, after the shopping centre closes, most businesses will offer exclusive promotions and a chance to win $20,000 worth of prizes. Holiday Glamorama starts at 7 p.m.

Aimed at raising funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley (BBBS) and Rotary Club of Langley Central, the ticketed event will also feature 20-plus wineries offering $1 samples, vendors with appetizers, holiday clothing, and of course the big man in red.

Entry ticket for this 19-plus event is $40 with separate charges to participate in contests and 50/50 draw. No children will be allowed to attend.

The first $30,000 raised will go to BBS, and the rest will benefit Rotary.

Money will help BBBS run its mentoring programs, which support more than 400 children and youth in the community facing adversity.

“The funds raised through Willowbrook’s charity shopping night will be directly invested in our programs, connecting youth to essential mentoring relationships,” said Roslyn Henderson, executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters Langley.

In the past, the Charity shopping night has raised about $30,000 for local charities and attracted about 1,000 shoppers.

But, this year, with Rotary stepping in, the goal is to set new records.

Nicole Lotz, the shopping mall’s marketing director, said the hope is to cross the $60,000 mark this year.

“We are really excited to welcome guests. It’s a great way for guests to kick off their holiday shopping and scope out the season’s must-have items, all while knowing they are supporting a great cause,” she said, adding that here may be a Gucci necklace up for grabs.

To learn more and purchase tickets, people can visit www.shopwillowbrook.com/charityshoppingnight. Those interested in volunteering with BBBS, can learn more at langley.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca.

Willowbrook mall is located at 19705 Fraser Hwy.

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RELATED: VIDEO: Holiday spending expected to slump amid inflation

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Willowbrook Shopping Mall is getting ready for its annual charity shopping night – event to take place Saturday, Nov. 19, at 7 p.m. (Langley Advance Times files)


Tanmay Ahluwalia

About the Author: Tanmay Ahluwalia

Tanmay Ahluwalia is a journalist with a digital mindset and a proud alumnus of the University of Delhi.
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