Held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Evergreen Hall, this year’s Hometown Hoedown for Hospice welcomed a sold-out crowd of 250 guests, a record for the event. Proudly presented by Century Plumbing & Heating, the evening was filled with high-energy fun, generosity and down-home country charm as sponsors, donors, volunteers and supporters came together from across the community.

Guests enjoyed a delicious barbecue dinner, games, a lively Dessert Dash, a 50-50 draw and a particularly successful online auction featuring more than 100 items generously donated by local individuals and businesses. With bidding from both event attendees and supporters across the community, the auction played a major role in this year’s record-breaking result.

The celebration also featured a surprise line-dancing flash mob by DanceFixx and live music from the Dusty Boots Band, whose mix of country and rock kept the dance floor full well into the evening.

“This year’s Hometown Hoedown for Hospice was a wonderful example of our community coming together in support of a cause that touches so many lives,” said Sue Knott, executive director of Chilliwack Hospice Society. “We are deeply grateful to every sponsor, donor, volunteer and guest who helped make this record-breaking evening possible.”

Chilliwack Hospice Society extends sincere appreciation to all event sponsors, auction and Dessert Dash donors, volunteers, professional service providers and community supporters for their generous support of this year’s Hometown Hoedown for Hospice.

Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.

PECSF is the BC Public Service’s employee-led workplace giving program, and since 1965, it has helped raise over $50 million for charities across the province. We are honoured to be a current donor choice charity and to be among the many organizations empowered by this meaningful initiative.

During the 2024 campaign, 6,191 donors from across B.C. contributed more than $2.63 million through PECSF — an extraordinary accomplishment made possible by the dedication of more than 1,000 volunteers who canvassed, coordinated, and championed the cause within their workplaces.

The portion of these funds directed to Chilliwack Hospice Society helps us provide compassionate care and free support services to individuals and families in our community who are impacted by dying, death, and grief. Every donation makes a difference — helping us continue to offer programs for children, youth, and adults, from one-on-one grief support to community education and hospice volunteer training.

We are incredibly thankful to the employees who chose to support our work through PECSF, and to the volunteers who made it all possible. Your care and community spirit are making a real impact right here in Chilliwack.

To our friends in the BC Public Service: if you are considering supporting us through the PECSF program, we invite you to select Chilliwack Hospice Society as your charity of choice. Your donations directly support people in our community when they need it most.

To learn more about the PECSF program and how to give, please visit their website.

Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.

If you would like to contribute an item or a cash donation to purchase an item for our online silent auction, please contact Sharilyn Jackson, Event Manager, at (604) 795-4660 or email sharilyn@chilliwackhospice.org. Thank you!

As donations are confirmed, we will update the following list:

• Abbotsford Canucks
• Algra Bros.
• Amazing Co.
• Arts Club Theatre
• Ascend Fitness & Lifestyle
• Banter Ice Cream
• Barn Country Bar, The
• BC Lions
• B Fit Personal Training
• Blenz Coffee
• Bozzini’s Restaurant
• Chilliwack Boxing Club
• Chilliwack Chiefs
• Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre
• Coast Chilliwack Hotel by APA
• Cottonwood Centre
• Cultus Lake Golf Club
• District 1881
• Earls Kitchen & Bar
• Elements Chilliwack Casino
• Excel Martial Arts
• E-Exit Chilliwack
• Fluxx CycleHouse
• Forest Echoes Cabins
• Fountain Tire
• Frankie’s Italian Kitchen
• FYidoctors — Chilliwack
• Gary Baars PREC
• Good Taco
• Greystone Dental
• GridZone Games
• High Hopes B & B
• House of Comedy
• H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
• Ironside Design Manufacturing
• Island Tan (Hocking Ave.)
• J. Adam & Sons Ltd.
• Jack’s Cycle
• Jacqueline Tait Notary Public
• Jiffy Lube
• Kelly/Carlos O’Bryans Pub
• Ken’s Tire & Wheel
• Kumsheen Rafting Resort
• Longfellow’s Furniture
• Major League 2 Taphouse & Sports Pub
• Men In Kilts
• Old Spaghetti Factory, The
• Oxygen Yoga & Fitness
• Pink ‘N Blue Kidz Clothing
• Prism Studio
• Quesada — Cottonwood
• Rebalance Rehab
• Royalwood Golf Course
• Smooth Effects Chilliwack
• Stó꞉lō Gift Shop
• Sue Knott
• The Keg
• TNT Hay
• Twisted Roots Salon
• Vancouver Art Gallery
• Vancouver Bandits
• Vancouver Canadians
• Vancouver Warriors

Updated as of March 6, 2026.

Sue Knott (centre) attended ‘bingo night’ on October 23 where the Dogwood Monarch Lions Club made their official cheque presentation to Chilliwack Hospice Society.

On October 8, Executive Director Sue Knott attended the club’s evening meeting to share an update on the Society’s work over the past year. Following her presentation, members of the Dogwood Monarch Lions Club surprised the Society with a commitment to donate $20,000 toward hospice programs and services. Knott later joined the club on October 23 during their weekly livestream bingo night for an official cheque presentation. “We are deeply grateful to the Dogwood Monarch Lions Club for their incredible generosity,” said Knott. “Their support helps us continue providing compassionate care and programs for individuals and families in our community who are living with dying, death, and loss.”

Chilliwack Hospice Society extends its sincere thanks to the Dogwood Monarch Lions Club for their ongoing dedication to serving the community.

The event brought together 120 golfers and numerous sponsors in honour of the late Russ Walsh. Committee chairpersons Gerry Enns and Kim Percy, both close friends of Walsh, helped guide the tournament alongside event manager Sharilyn Jackson of Chilliwack Hospice Society.

Prospera Credit Union returned as the presenting sponsor, while local business Guerilla Q provided a barbecue lunch for participants. Volunteers from both Meadowlands and Chilliwack Hospice Society played a vital role in ensuring the day ran smoothly.

“We are so grateful to the golfers, sponsors, and volunteers who made this day possible,” said Sue Knott, executive director. “The generosity of our community continues to carry forward Russ’s legacy and support the care we provide.”

The Society extended special thanks to Jo-Ann Thompson of Meadowlands Golf and Country Club for her assistance in hosting the event.

Next year’s tournament is scheduled for September 10, 2026, at Meadowlands.

At Chilliwack Hospice Society, the new fridge enhances the experience of participants in grief support groups by making it easier to prepare and share meals. Whether it’s a pot of soup, a tray of sandwiches, or snacks and refreshments after a support session, food often plays a quiet but powerful role in creating connection and comfort.

“Grief can feel incredibly isolating, but when people gather to cook or share a meal, it becomes easier to talk, to listen, and to simply be together,” said Sue Knott, Executive Director of Chilliwack Hospice Society. “These fridges may seem like a small upgrade, but it has already deepened the sense of community and care we strive to create in every one of our free programs.”

One program already benefiting is the Men’s Cooking Group, held the last Saturday of each month from 5–7:00pm. Open to men who are grieving the death of someone in their lives, this casual, confidential evening of cooking and conversation invites participants to connect with others who are on their own grief journey. Whether you’re an experienced cook or looking to learn new skills, you’re welcome. To join the men’s cooking group or learn more, contact Lucy Fraser, MSW, Director of Programs, at (604) 795-4660 or lucy@chilliwackhospice.org.

The fridge at Thrifty Boutique, located at #101–7955 Evans Road, was purchased specifically for volunteer use. Volunteers play a vital role in the Boutique’s daily operations — from sorting donations and merchandising to assisting shoppers. With a dedicated space to store lunches, beverages, and treats, the new fridge is helping make their time at the store more enjoyable and comfortable.

Chilliwack Hospice Society extends heartfelt thanks to the Distribution Committee of the Chilliwack Foundation for making these purchases possible and for its ongoing support of the Society’s work over the years.

Themed ‘Vintage Vibes’, the event brought together the best of thrifted fashion and timeless style. Thirty volunteer models walked the runway, each showcasing three carefully curated outfits — complete with accessories and footwear — all sourced from Thrifty Boutique. From modern casual to retro chic, the looks celebrated the creativity and sustainability of second-hand fashion.

“This event is such a beautiful expression of what Chilliwack can do when the community comes together with heart and purpose,” said Executive Director Sue Knott, who emceed the evening. “It’s more than just a fashion show — it’s about compassion, connection, and making a meaningful difference for people facing death, dying, and grief.”

Attendees enjoyed more than just the fashion. The evening also featured a pop-up shop, penny social, silent auction, and mystery treasures — all made possible by generous donors who support Thrifty Boutique throughout the year. Each item was repurposed and reimagined into beautiful gift baskets and one-of-a-kind packages, allowing guests to shop for a cause and take home something special.

“This event is a celebration of sustainability,” said Sandy Parker, Thrifty Boutique store manager. “Everything seen on the runway — every outfit, every accessory — started as a donated item. With creativity and care, second-hand becomes one-of-a-kind. Volunteers truly outdid themselves — not only as models on the runway, but also behind the scenes preparing appetizers, setting up, and making the evening unforgettable.”

A special highlight of the night included a vintage runway presentation from Chilliwack Players Guild, featuring authentic costumes from the 1800s to the 1980s, adding theatrical flair and a touch of history to the show.

The success of the event was made possible by the generosity and dedication of many. Devry Greenhouses provided greenery and floral décor. Scott Hrusik of RE/MAX Nyda Realty donated a cube van to transport supplies, with Joe Palmer, a longtime volunteer, taking the wheel. Vickie Legere provided photography for the evening, and Jolly Miller Pub generously donated the wine.

Discover Thrifty Boutique: Where Style Meets Purpose. Thrifty Boutique offers an upscale thrifting experience while supporting Chilliwack Hospice Society. Shop with purpose and explore a curated collection of quality clothing, accessories, home décor, books, and more. With new items added daily, there’s always something unique to discover. Proceeds from every purchase directly support local programs and services for individuals and families navigating death, dying, grief, and loss.

Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.

PECSF is the BC Public Service’s employee-led workplace giving program, and since 1965, it has helped raise over $50 million for charities across the province. We are honoured to be a current donor choice charity and to be among the many organizations empowered by this meaningful initiative.

This past year, 6,191 donors from across B.C. contributed more than $2.63 million through PECSF — an extraordinary accomplishment made possible by the dedication of more than 1,000 volunteers who canvassed, coordinated, and championed the cause within their workplaces.

The portion of these funds directed to Chilliwack Hospice Society helps us provide compassionate care and free support services to individuals and families in our community who are impacted by dying, death, and grief. Every donation makes a difference — helping us continue to offer programs for children, youth, and adults, from one-on-one grief support to community education and hospice volunteer training.

We are incredibly thankful to the employees who chose to support our work through PECSF, and to the volunteers who made it all possible. Your care and community spirit are making a real impact right here in Chilliwack.

To our friends in the BC Public Service: if you are considering supporting us through the PECSF program, we invite you to select Chilliwack Hospice Society as your charity of choice. Your donations directly support people in our community when they need it most.

To learn more about the PECSF program and how to give, please visit their website.

Chilliwack Hospice Society is a community-based organization that helps individuals and families dealing with dying and death through support, education, and programs that promote wellness and healthy grieving.

• A delicious barbeque dinner by Guerrilla Q
• High-energy country music to keep the dance floor packed
• A lively silent auction featuring incredible items
• The return of our fan-favourite mechanical bull
• Delicious drinks, Dessert Dash, and more!