The 50/50 program at Whitecaps FC matches – benefiting BC Children’s Hospital Foundation and presented by Save-On-Foods – is lucky to have a number of dedicated volunteers.
One of the program’s volunteers, Bob Nath, is difficult to miss in the crowd.
Nath regularly paints his face different patterns of Blue and White in support of the ‘Caps and can be found enthusiastically selling 50/50 tickets at ‘Caps Kickoff before the match.
Nath, a production manager at a furniture company, was born in Fiji and moved to Vancouver 25 years ago. He has been volunteering at Whitecaps FC matches since 2012 and instantly became a fan.
“I don't think that I've missed a home match since I started volunteering, except for one when I was travelling in Germany,” Nath said. “I wore my Whitecaps jersey almost every day during my travels. Someone recognized it and called out ‘Whitecaps!’”
Not only has Nath become close with fellow volunteers from the 50/50 program, he has also established meaningful relationships with fans.
“The fans have become part of the family too,” he said. “I look for them in the crowd and they also look for me.”
At the end of the day though, Nath says it’s all about the patients at BC Children’s Hospital.
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“The research into childhood diseases is required for tomorrow's patient,” he said. “I know a decent amount of the money raised right now is going into the building of a new care facility that will house children with chronic and complex conditions. I'm also thankful for BC Children’s Hospital as my daughter was born there and they took great care of her.”
This week marks National Volunteer Week in Canada. The 50/50 program’s presenting partner, Save-On-Foods, would like to recognize Nath and all of the other program volunteers.
“Thank you to the many volunteers who generously donate their time to sell 50/50 tickets at home matches,” said Darrell Jones, Save-On-Foods president. “The money raised supports the care of kids throughout BC – something the Save-On-Foods Team is also very passionate about.”
Thousands of dollars are raised for BC Children’s Hospital Foundation at every Whitecaps FC home match, all thanks to 50/50 volunteers and the fans who purchase tickets.
In the wise words of Nath: “How can you pass on an opportunity to give back?”
Want to join the 50/50 team? We are always looking for new volunteers!
To find out more about becoming a volunteer for the 50/50 program benefiting BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, pleaseclickhereor email 5050volunteer@bcchf.ca.
To find out more about the 50/50 program and purchasing tickets, please click here.
