The 2024 Auction for Athletes drove inspiring support for Special Olympics BC and the New Car Dealers Foundation of BC, raising over $255,000, our biggest fundraising total yet!

From April 15 to 18, the 2024 auction was filled with over 200 luxurious items in sport, recreation, travel, and many other categories. We are so grateful to the New Car Dealers, auction item donors, bidders, and supporters for helping fuel two impactful charities!

“I am so proud to be part of an industry that is committed to making a significant and lasting impact on the people and communities across this province,” says Blair Qualey, President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. “But it’s also important to acknowledge and thank our sponsors and those placing generous bids because they too play a pivotal role in supporting SOBC’s year-round sports programs and NCDA grants and scholarships for those pursuing a career in the industry.”

For more than 35 years, the auction has raised more than $5.65 million to support the life-changing work of Special Olympics BC and the New Car Dealers Foundation of BC.

On behalf of athletes like Tony Wilkinson, Special Olympics BC thanks all the Auction for Athletes supporters who are committed to changing lives and creating opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities to thrive.

“Special Olympics has changed my life as it taught me to eat healthy food and the importance of working out,” says Wilkinson. “[I like] making new friends, learning new sports, and having a supportive community that welcomes everyone.”

For SOBC – Creston athlete Claire Lemaire, Special Olympics is a place where she can build belonging and create lasting friendships and memories.

“With Special Olympics I am more confident, and I enjoy travelling, making new friends, and trying new things. With Special Olympics my life is fuller. I feel happy when I know I can do different sports everyday thanks to all the volunteer coaches and all the local community members,” Lemaire says.

Heartfelt thanks to the dedicated members of the auction organizing committee. Every year, they give countless hours of thoughtful and compassionate work to make this event a success.

• Raj Autar, First Canadian Financial Group
• Manse Binkley, Harmony Honda
• David Jukes, First Canadian Financial Group
• Pam Keith, Dueck Auto Group
• Brad Osterman, Kia Victoria
• Blaire Qualey, New Car Dealers Association

Special Olympics BC and the New Car Dealers Foundation of BC extend sincere thanks to everyone who supported the 2024 auction and look forward to another exciting event in 2025.