ABOUT THE TREE OF HOPE

For the past 24 years, the Tree of HOPE, a focal point in the Landmark District, has been a bright symbol of inspiration and hope to our community. However, Kelowna residents are likely unaware of the unique story of how the tree came to be!
It all started with a 160-foot construction crane standing idle next to the completed shell of the Landmark 2 Tower in 1997. The idea struck when Al Stober realized that his company could not use the crane until after the Christmas season. “What if we could dangle a giant Christmas tree from the lifting hook of the crane?”, Al wondered.Inspired, Al drew a little sketch on a napkin at a local restaurant. He showed the drawing to his sons (Ken and Mark) and before they left the restaurant a plan was in place.
By early December that year, the tree was finished, casting its glorious radiance across the city - a glowing reminder of the spirit of the Christmas season. And so was born the tradition of the Tree of Hope at the Landmark District.

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“Lighting the Tree of Hope each year brings so much pride and joy to my life because we are able to continue Al’s vision of creating a tangible focus of inspiration and hope for thousands of people in our community each year. The Tree of Hope represents so much more than just the holidays. It represents community, connectedness, and collaboration. It’s a celebration of what we can achieve and inspire when we all come together as one."

Ken Stober

DIRECTORTHE STOBER GROUP

"Each and every year I eagerly look forward to the evening of the magical light up of the Tree of Hope. It has become a highlight of the year for myself and my family and has become the unofficial launch of the Christmas season in Kelowna!For me, the Tree of Hope ignites a joyful optimism reminding me that we are not alone in the challenges we face, and how we face them together as a community."

Carolyn Stober

DIRECTOR THE STOBER GROUP

"The Tree of Hope for me has always symbolized the commencement of the Christmas season – a special time with family and friends. As I learned more about the Tree of Hope, it’s come to symbolize community, gratitude, kindness and generosity to those in need. I look forward each year to seeing what important charity will be selected by the Stober Foundation and feel incredible warmth in seeing the generosity it inspires"

Dave McAnerney

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERTHE STOBER GROUP

"The Tree of Hope is my absolute favourite event of the year. We have the privilege of inviting our community to the Landmark District and celebrating connection, collaboration, and community philanthropy via the Stober Foundation. Kelowna is quite simply the best place to live, and what makes it so special are the people who live here."

Keith Brewster

LEAD PHILANTHROPISTTHE STOBER FOUNDATION

LOCATION

Located at the Tree of Hope Plaze at Landmark 7 (opening 2022)1700 Dickson Avenue - in the heart of Landmark District

WHEN TO VISIT

The Tree of Hope is lit from November 25th, 2021 through to January 2nd, 2022.

VIEW THE LIGHT UP

The tree lighting will be held virtually through a live stream event on November 25th, 2021 at 5:15pm.Visit www.castanet.net click on TREE OF HOPE banner to view

The Tree of Hope is more than just a holiday symbol. It is also an opportunity to usher in a season of compassion, generosity, and gratitude, all while educating ourselves on issues that face our community and charities that exist to address them. We call this initiative within the celebration, Raising Hope.

In partnership with the Landmark District, TD Canada Trust, and Stober Family Foundation, RAISING HOPE 2021 seeks to highlight, address, and elevate the conversation of “WOMEN AT RISK’.
To learn more about the 2021 RAISING HOPE initiative, click below!

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