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Landmark District

The History of 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.

While the Tree of HOPE was meant to be a single event, it has been lit every year since 1995. The tree now stands over 120 feet tall and has approximately 25,000 LED energy efficient bulbs. More importantly, from late November until January 1st, the Tree of HOPE becomes a local celebration and a visible reminder to our community and those visiting that Christmas is a time of generosity and fellowship. In addition to its lighting celebration, the Tree of HOPE also ushers in a season and opportunity to spread compassion to those in need. It is a beacon for fundraising and symbolizes Kelowna as a community known for its kindness, generosity, and gratitude.

In partnership with the tenants of Landmark District and TD Canada Trust, the Tree of HOPE donates funds each year to local charitable organizations that seek to help marginalized populations, enhance community development, and address complex social issues facing our community. To date, over $1,000,000 has been donated to charities within our community!

Past Recipients

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The Stober Foundation

A COLLECTIVE OF INNOVATIVE AND PROGRESSIVE PHILANTHROPISTS, LOOKING TO MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE.

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In recent years, the Stober Foundation has evolved dramatically and now supports charitable initiatives from around the world while staying true to the community that has helped it thrive. As such, it actively engages and supports charities with creative, innovative, and most importantly, sustainable approaches to issues within the communities they serve.
They are dedicated to partnering with local, national, and international charitable initiatives that are progressive and sustainable in nature when it comes to creating solutions and opportunities in mental health, medicine, continuing education, and technology. They are passionate about giving back to a community that has given so much to us and remain focused on the work that has guided us from the beginning: community development, faith, humanitarian efforts, and innovation.
After nearly 30 years of driving the foundation forward, the family’s matriarch, the lovely Sandra Stober, stepped down and nominated her son, Ken, to oversee the foundation as President. This change marks a new generation of family philanthropy. The foundation is now positioned to build upon the incredible work done by Sandra, and drive our philanthropy forward - all while stewarding the grace bestowed upon us.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY COLLABORATIONS

Discover the story behind the Stober Foundation.Learn more about the Landmark District.

Created by Details Design Inc.

All rights Reserved

Created by Details Design Inc.

All rights Reserved