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Fathers and families together again

Father’s Day celebrations at the annual Discovery House party was all about the family.
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Chris Pond was dressed in his finest for his time in the dunk tank. Mark Brett/Penticton Western News

Father’s Day celebrations at the annual Discovery House party was all about the family.

Cool, cloudy conditions did not dampen the spirits of the more than 100 people who turned up at Skaha Lake Park Sunday for the wide range of activities, events and great food.

“Really that’s what we’re all about is getting fathers and sons back to the families and this is a way we can celebrate the success with the guys who are out here,” said executive director Jerome Abraham of Discovery House. “It’s been fantastic and it’s awesome to have it down here.

“It’s just to let people know what we’re all about and it kind of breaks down the stigma of addiction. Most of the guys helping have been through Discovery House and it’s giving back to the commmuinuty which is really one one of the strong things we encourage in the guys.

Discovery House is a long-term, men’s treatment alcohol and drug treatment centre.

The fundraising event helps pay costs for the men who spend time at the house, most of who would not be able to afford it otherwise.

Thanks to a host of sponsors the food and activities were free of charge (or by donation).

Highlight of the event, which in the past had been held at Discovery House, was the dunk tank which staff and clients volunteered to get get wet for a few bucks.

As promised Abraham donned a ball gown for his dunk and wound up exceeding his $2,500 goal to the tune of $3,070.

“Cold,” was the only thing he could say after the first splash.

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Executive director of Discovery House, Jerome Abraham, donned the gown after receiving over $3,000 in pledges at the annual Discovery House Father’s Day fundraiser. Mark Brett/Penticton Western News
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Tim Hodgkinson helps son Will’s with his goalie pads for their turn in the road hockey event. Mark Brett/Penticton Western News