As another year comes to a close, Vella Radio is proud to look back on the partnerships and community events that made 2025 such a memorable year across the Shuswap, Okanagan and for some sponsorships, all of British Columbia. Supporting local people, places, and programs continues to be an important part of who we are.
Through our sponsorships, we help build stronger connections, create opportunities for growth, and celebrate the spirit that defines this region. From sports and outdoor recreation to festivals, fundraisers, and mental health initiatives, every partnership is rooted in our commitment to community.
Supporting Local Sports and Recreation
Sports and cars bring people together, and this year we were proud to stand behind teams and athletes across the region. From the energy of the Salmon Arm Demolition Derby and Armstrong Demolition Derby to the precision of BC Golf and BC Junior Golf, every event reflected dedication and teamwork. Our ongoing support of the Larch Hills Ski and Nordic Society continued through multiple events, if you’re ever up at the lodge, look for our golden plaque! The Vernon Ski Club also hung our banner this year while using Kenwood radios for their loppet.
Ride Don’t Hide for CMHA hosted its second run in our community this fall, managing trails with the help of our rental radios and raising over $20,000 for mental health.
We were also proud to support the Vernon Vipers again this year through the use of 16 radios for their game day volunteers. Our new friends at Voltage Lawn Mower Racing showed up with engines revving and took part in both the Salmon Arm Demolition Derby and the Salmon Arm Fair. We even got to hang a banner on their parade float. Whizbang Boxing demonstrated our community’s strength and spirit at their Whizbang Boxing Interior Series #2 event, showcasing passion, perseverance, and pride. The Salmon Arm Skating Club once again amazed us all at their annual show. This year’s performance of The Grinch and His Whos was truly a sight to see.
Celebrating Outdoor Adventure
British Columbia is known for its adventurous spirit, and we are proud to help keep that energy alive. The Salty Dog Enduro, Dragonboat Festival, Sicamous Jump Park, and Bush Babes Run Club all brought out local involvement, the competitive rush and a sprained ankle or two.
At Vella, we have supported both the Salty Dog Enduro and our local Dragonboat Festival for almost a decade, a commitment we are proud to brag about.
Building Community Through Arts and Music
Festivals and gatherings help define what it means to live in the Shuswap/Okanagan. This year we were happy to support the SunDog Festival, Ozone Festival, and Funtastic Festival. We also joined in supporting Captain’s Cove Marina 50th Anniversary, and heard that was the place to be!
Giving Back and Making a Difference
Community support goes beyond sponsorships. We are honoured to stand behind initiatives that protect, serve, and uplift others. Organizations such as Salmon Arm Rescue Unit, Shuswap Brewersfest and the Okanagan Forest Task Force reflect the values we hold close, safety, well-being, and environmental stewardship.
We were happy to support Shuswap Brewersfest, a fundraiser for the Salmon Arm Rescue Unit as they upgrade equipment to match the heightened demand on our highways with first responder calls. We work closely with the Salmon Arm Rescue Unit and their volunteers, so are always happy to support a cause supporting them.
Salmon Arm Rescue Unit also held their annual dance, raising over $10,000 towards their new truck to support Salmon Arm and the surrounding areas. We donated a Kenwood Dash Camera for the silent auction on behalf of Kenwood and Vella Radio.
Okanagan Forest Task Force is run by a group of outdoor enthusiasts concerned over the growing epidemic of illegal dumping in our forests, recreational areas and along natural waterways. We were given the opportunity to create an ongoing partnership with them through the donation of 6 Kenwood Nx-1200AK2 radios to be used during their clean ups. This connection was made through our ongoing support of the 4WDABC.
Further raffle donations included, Sunday Funday hosted by the Tappen Sunnybrae Fire Department for which we donated some Kenwood audio equipment to their Silent Auction. And a new Kenwood stereo for the Skwlax 2nd Golf Tournament, to raise money for those affected by the 2023 Scotch Creek/Adams Lake Wildfire.
We are proud to contribute to projects that create lasting impact and support the communities that support us.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we prepare for the year ahead, our team remains committed to investing in people and programs that bring lasting value to our region. To everyone who organized, volunteered, or participated in these incredible events, thank you for making 2025 a year to remember. Your dedication keeps our communities thriving.
Here is to another year of connection, growth, and community pride.
The Vella Radio Team
