Life Culture raised $50,000 at its annual Spring Gala in Niverville on May 15, supporting programs that provide practical help to women in the region.
Held at the Niverville Heritage Centre, the evening brought together supporters for an educational and fundraising event that featured a panel of staff sharing firsthand about the organization's work. While the gala was originally scheduled for the new Southeast Event Centre, construction delays led organizers to return to their previous venue — a pivot that Executive Director Susan Penner says worked out well in the end.
“We filled up the atrium at the Niverville Heritage Centre, and that's such a beautiful venue with the lights and vaulted ceilings,” said Penner. “People are super generous towards our organization, which is so appreciated.”
Staff-led presentation connects with audience
This year’s program was unexpectedly reshaped after a last-minute cancellation by the planned guest speaker. Instead, Penner hosted a panel featuring Life Culture staff.
Candace Loewen spoke about Angel Baby, the organization’s pregnancy and infant loss ministry. Cheyenne Reimer shared about her work with foster moms, and Brenda Brown talked about leading Single Moms Connect, a support group for women raising children on their own.
Penner also gave a sample presentation similar to those she delivers in schools and other community settings, offering insight into Life Culture’s mission and values.
“We actually might end up doing this model again next year, even though we kind of stumbled upon it out of necessity this year,” she said.
Walk for Life happening May 25 in Steinbach
Life Culture’s next event, the annual Walk for Life, takes place on Sunday, May 25 at K.R. Barkman Park in Steinbach. The family-friendly gathering begins with a free BBQ from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by speakers, and the walk itself runs from 2:30 to 3 p.m.
The event also serves as a large-scale baby shower, with attendees invited to bring items like diapers or gift cards for single moms.
“This is an opportunity for people to bring something along that we can then pass along to single moms,” said Penner. “We actually also send some of it to other organizations that are doing similar work as we are, so it really has an impact on our province.”
Penner notes that the need is real in Steinbach. According to Statistics Canada, more than 500 single moms live in the community.
“We really do need to support — whether that's financial or emotional or just simply friendship,” she said. “It can be very isolating and lonely to be a single mom.”
Funding goes directly to support programs
The funds raised at the gala will directly support Life Culture’s programming, which includes:
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Angel Baby pregnancy and infant loss ministry
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Single Moms Connect support group
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Foster moms group
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Pregnancy resource support
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Post-abortion counselling
Penner describes the organization’s mission as both promoting life and supporting women.
“We don’t want to just talk about being supportive of life,” she said. “We also want to put action behind that.”