We met our $14-million fundraising goal!
Together, we did something extraordinary.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, community partners and supporters, the Don Folk and Family Recreation and Wellness Centre is now a reality. What began as a bold vision is about to become a vibrant new gathering place where students can stay active, build friendships, support their well-being and create lasting memories.
This achievement reflects the power of community and a shared belief that students deserve every opportunity to thrive.
As students' needs continue to evolve, so do the opportunities to enhance student life, well-being, and belonging through innovative programs, experiences, and future initiatives.
Join us in creating a healthier, more connected campus where students and community can grow together.
Support student life
Community helps Okanagan College cross $14M finish line for Recreation and Wellness Centre
Thanks to the generosity and passion of hundreds of local families and businesses, OC has reached its $14 million fundraising goal and will finish construction of the Don Folk and Family Recreation and Wellness Centre.
The achievement marks the successful completion of Okanagan College Foundation's Thrive Here campaign, a true community effort that demonstrated one simple truth: generosity quite literally thrives here.
Building recreation and wellness at our Kelowna campus
The Recreation and Wellness Centre is a modern facility for sports, recreation and wellness activities for all students, intramural and collegiate teams, staff and the community. The centre will include:
Key features:
- Multipurpose gymnasium for students, staff, and the community
- Competition-size court to accommodate a range of sport, recreational activities and community events
- Retractable spectator seating for 800
- Fitness suite with state-of-the-art equipment
- Two lane suspended indoor running track
Team OC Foundation
Contact us to transform lives and communities:
Pamela Prentice
Development Officer
Email: pprentice@okanagan.bc.ca
Campus: Kelowna
Phone: 250-864-6090
Pam Prentice joined the Okanagan College Foundation team in July 2023.
With over 15 years of experience in post-secondary and nonprofit fundraising in the Okanagan, Pam enjoys connecting community members with opportunities to make an impact through their philanthropy.
The motivation to give is different for everyone, and it’s the stories behind the giving that Pam is most interested in learning. Whether it be support for students, a specific program of interest or a capital campaign, she guides the process of giving with care and respect for the donor’s wishes.
Pam is a strong believer in the value of post-secondary education and is inspired by the many areas of study available to prospective Okanagan College students. Passionate about student health and wellbeing, Pam understands the impact of having a healthy mind and body and how it drives academic and career success.
Living in Kelowna since 2003, Pam and her family feel privileged to enjoy the many outdoor activities that the beautiful Okanagan Valley presents.
Sasha Carter
Associate Director, Development
Email: scarter@okanagan.bc.ca
Campus: Kelowna
Phone: 250-469-1594
Sasha Carter joined the Okanagan College Foundation team in August 2021. With more than five years’ experience working in nonprofit planned giving and 17 years in the insurance industry, Sasha blends passion and financial acumen to support donors in planning their legacy.
Sasha helps donors with identifying their passions and aligning them with projects at Okanagan College, whether that be for individual student supports and bursaries, estate planning or capital project and program enhancement. There is never one size fits all.
For Sasha, it is paramount that she understands how her donors would like to have their positive impact felt in the world. By understanding the different methods of funding, whether it be through publicly-traded gifts of securities, a gift in a will or other charitable tools, Sasha helps donors maximize their philanthropy.
Sasha is a mom to two young boys, and is an avid competitive curler. She has competed on the provincial, national and international stage; capturing the title of World Champion in both 1995 and 2007.
Samantha Blandon
Development Officer, Annual Giving
Email: sblandon@okanagan.bc.ca
Campus: Kelowna
Phone: 250-762-5445 ext. 4836
Samantha Blandon is dedicated to building community and believes deeply in the power of education.
As Development Officer, Annual Giving at Okanagan College, she connects community with meaningful opportunities to support students through awards and impactful programs.
A proud OC alumna (2013 BBA), Samantha brings more than a decade of experience in fundraising and non-profit engagement. Recognized with a Service Excellence Award in 2019, she is known for her thoughtful approach, commitment to student success, and ability to bring people together to create lasting impact.
Samantha was born and raised in Kelowna and is a proud first-generation Canadian with Central American roots. She’s grateful to call the Okanagan home to enjoy all the natural beauty and vibrant community it offers.