Do you want to help fund research, grow support networks, and improve the quality of life for those living with Parkinson’s? Become a Champion for Parkinson’s and plan your own independent community fundraising event!
From bake sales, birthday parties, and beer tastings to tennis tournaments and car shows—no event is too big or too small. A third-party event is any initiative organized independently by passionate individuals or groups, with proceeds supporting our programs, services, and advocacy efforts. Take the lead, get creative, build awareness, raise funds, and most importantly—have fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of event(s) can be organized?
PSBC encourages you to choose events that excite you and align with your interests. It’s also important to select something manageable based on your time, budget, and resources. Whether your event is large or small, every contribution makes a meaningful impact. Here are some fun ideas:
- Food & Drink: Dinner parties, breakfasts, BBQs, holiday celebrations, wine or beer tastings, pub nights
- Sports & Games: Golf, bowling, hockey, tennis tournaments, or friendly competitions
- Community Fundraisers: Car washes, bake sales, garage sales
- Special Occasions: Anniversaries, birthdays, weddings, or other meaningful celebrations
- Entertainment: Fashion shows, concerts, theatrical events
- Workplace Fundraisers: Casual Fridays (or any day of the week!)
- Fitness Challenges: Yoga, Zumba, cycling, running, or other physical activities you enjoy
No matter what event you choose, remember to plan with your capacity in mind. Make sure you have the time, energy, and support to see it through successfully—and most importantly, have fun with it!
What support can Parkinson Society BC provide for third-party events?
Parkinson Society BC is here to support you in making your event a success. Here’s how we can assist:
- Personalized Support: One-on-one guidance via phone or email
- Event Kit: Includes balloons, banners, donation box, envelopes, and informational pamphlets
- Branding Support: Use of the PSBC logo for approved event materials
- Promotion: Listing on our online event calendar and social media channels
- Acknowledgment Letter: For securing sponsors, prize donations, or applying for gaming and alcohol licenses (for approved events)
- Fundraising Tools: A personalized fundraising page for secure online donations
- Tax Receipts: May be issued for eligible gifts if agreed upon in advance, in accordance with Canada Revenue Agency guidelines (note that some donations may not qualify)
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide:
- Access to Contacts: Due to privacy policies, we cannot share donor, board, or staff lists
- Sponsorship Assistance: Securing event sponsorships must be handled by the organizer
- Insurance Coverage: PSBC cannot provide insurance for third-party events
Can Parkinson Society BC issue tax receipts for my event?
Before promising tax receipts to attendees of your event, it is essential to discuss tax receipting with PSBC. If tax receipting is possible and agreed upon, the event organizer must collect the necessary donor information. Alternatively, donations made through a personalized PSBC fundraising page are often automatically receipted.
Please note:
- Ineligible Items: Services and gift certificates do not qualify for tax receipts.
- Group Donations: Donations collected from multiple individuals and submitted as a lump sum by the organizer cannot be receipted in the organizer’s name.
All tax receipting must be pre-approved by PSBC before gifts are accepted. For more information, visit the CRA website on charitable tax receipts.
Can we use the Parkinson Society BC logo in promoting the event?
Yes, you may use the PSBC logo on promotional materials for your event, but prior approval is required. We have a special logo specifically for third-party events, which we will provide once the event is approved. Additionally, we ask that all third-party event organizers sign our Third-Party Event Agreement before promoting the event or using our logo. This ensures alignment on expectations and protects both our brand and your efforts.
It’s important that Parkinson Society BC maintains transparency and upholds standards for charitable events. As a registered charity, PSBC is responsible for proper reporting to the Canada Revenue Agency and ensuring donors are appropriately acknowledged. We’re committed to supporting your event, and this process ensures everything runs smoothly for everyone involved.
Can Parkinson Society BC reimburse for expenses?
While we deeply appreciate the time and effort our volunteers dedicate to organizing events, PSBC is unable to reimburse expenses. As the event organizer, you’ll be responsible for managing the event’s finances. We recommend planning carefully to keep expenses within 50% of the total revenue.
To help reduce costs, consider reaching out to local businesses for in-kind donations or sponsorships. While PSBC does not secure sponsorships directly for third-party events, we’re happy to offer suggestions and ideas if you need guidance.
Can event organizers host raffles, 50/50s, or serve alcohol?
Please inform PSBC of any intention to host a raffle, 50/50, or serve alcohol at your event for approval. The organizer is responsible for obtaining the necessary permits, licenses, and event insurance. Please check with your municipality regarding permits.
A license is required for lotteries and gaming activities such as bingos, 50/50 draws, raffles, etc. For further information and application forms, please visit the BC Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch online.
Licenses are also required with the sale of alcohol. Check with Liquor Control and Licensing Branch in your city.
Getting Started
Thank you for your interest in hosting a fundraising event in support of Parkinson Society British Columbia (PSBC)! If you have an idea for an event, the next step is to share the details with us. Simply fill out our event form, and a member of our team will get in touch to guide you through the approval process.
This form helps us understand your event plans and how we can support your efforts. Whether your event is big or small, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. Let’s work together to make your event a success!
The dedication of our community through third-party events is truly remarkable. It’s inspiring to witness individuals unite with creativity and passion, advancing our shared mission to improve the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s.
