First-ever Okotoks' Got Talent exceeded all expectations

The community will see ongoing benefits from the first-ever Okotoks' Got Talent.

Held at the Viking Rentals Centre on March 7, the sold-out event was a fundraiser presented by the United Way & Okotoks Partnership in collaboration with the Town of Okotoks, and by all means was a successful one, having raised $15,000 and counting. 

The event's impact will go beyond its 16 entertaining performances and will be far-reaching in the community, explained committee chair Mike Cook.

"I think it's going to make a huge impact," he said. "Every single cent goes right back to the community."

The event had three main objectives: raise money for local programming, raise community awareness of the work done by the United Way & Okotoks Partnership and create an event that brings all ages and demographics under one roof for a night of fun. 

"We had so many positive comments coming back from those who attended," Cook said. "It was a sold-out crowd, which we were super excited about, and for us it just showcases the community."

The United Way & Okotoks Partnership, part of the United Way of Calgary and Area, supports non-profits and initiatives that address the social needs of those living in Okotoks and area.

Previous funding recipients include the Foothills School Division, Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools, Foothills Country Hospice Society, Nurtured by Nature Mental Health and Wellness Society, Okotoks Family Resource Centre, Rowan House Society, Solace Grief Support Society, Inclusion Foothills Association and KidSport Okotoks. 

"There's so many local charities that need our help, we typically always see more demand than what we can supply, so we're continuing to look and explore different ways we can continue to raise money," said Cook.

The future of Okotoks' Got Talent looks bright, with planning already underway for next year's event.

"We are super, super excited to hopefully make this an annual event," said Cook. "We're already thinking about other ways we can have some fun at the event, lots of ideas floating around, and we can't wait to narrow it down and make it bigger and better for next year."