News & Stories

Evening of Opportunity is BGC Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton & Area’s (BGCBigs) new, signature fundraising event in support of BGCBigs.

Together we’ll celebrate the power of mentoring and youth programming, and of course, raise important funds in support of BGCBigs’ mentoring programs, out-of-school programs and youth engagement programs.

 

Hosted by Josh Classen, the evening will feature delicious food and drinks, powerful stories, exciting raffle prizes and a silent auction. 

Plus, local folk duo The Western Thistles, will be taking the stage:

Blending old-time roots with modern-day storytelling, The Western Thistles are an Edmonton folk duo known for their clawhammer banjo, rhythm guitar, and rich harmonies. Formed in 2023 by Mark Boer and Sabrina (Bri) Huot-Boer, the duo weaves their lived experiences into songs rooted in folk, old-time and country traditions. Their debut album, released in 2025 and co-produced by Miles Wilkinson (Guy Clark, Emmylou Harris), claimed the #7 spot on CKUA’s Top 30 chart in its first week out. With a sound that’s raw, resonant, and heartfelt, The Western Thistles preserve the art of storytelling through music that reflects the rhythms of everyday life.

Tickets are just $150 and include: 

• One complimentary drink
• Live Entertainment by local folk duo Western Thistles
• All You Can Eat Appetizers

 

Buy your tickets today
BGCBigs.ca/fundraising/eveningofopportunity

 

Kerry Woodland, Co-Executive Director of BGCBigs explained why the inaugural event for Evening of Opportunity has been highly anticipated.  

“Many people might have fond memories of our previous fundraising event called Lobster Lovers Feast. For nearly 25 years, the Lobster Lovers Feast was a favourite among our staff, volunteers, families and generous supporters,” said Woodland. “The Covid-19 pandemic forced us to put the Lobster Lovers Feast on pause indefinitely, leaving a huge gap in our hearts and BGCBigs’ ability to bring our community together and raise funds for the Agency.”

 

Unlocking Doors to Brighter Futures

Evening of Opportunity promises to be a fun and exciting evening, where guests will ‘open doors to potential’—literally! Throughout the evening, guests can purchase keys for the chance to unlock doors displayed on stage. Only special keys will ‘unlock’ the doors, each revealing an exclusive prize such as Edmonton Oilers tickets or flights to any destination served by WestJet. If your special key unlocks a door, you claim the prize!

Every key purchased supports vital programs that help young people develop life skills and realize their full potential.

 

Measured Moments. Real Impact.

All funds raised at the event will directly support more than 4,500 children and youth in Edmonton and surrounding areas. This support looks like: 

• 18,623 meals served at a Club
• 44,528 visits to BGCBigs site
• 229 days a Club or out-of-school-time site was open
• 90,963 total mentoring volunteer hours

 

Every ticket helps open doors to potential for young people—don’t miss your chance to be part of it!

Buy your tickets today
BGCBigs.ca/fundraising/eveningofopportunity

Ticket Bundles Available

Together, we’re creating meaningful change—and making sure your investment is seen, celebrated and felt across the community. And of course, fundraising works better when we do it together. Bring your family, friends and colleagues!

• When you purchase 4 tickets for $600, you’ll receive 8 complimentary drink tickets. 
• When you purchase 10 tickets $1,500, you’ll receive 20 complimentary drink tickets.  

Every ticket, donation and auction bid directly supports young people through mentoring and after-school programs.

Buy your tickets today