Open invitation to celebrate Vernon city councillor’s ‘compassion and kindness’

Friends of Vernon city councillor and well-known community advocate Dalvir Nahal, have organized an open invitation gathering to celebrate her contributions to the community.

The open invitation says the gathering, which takes place Nov. 24 at Vernon's Eclectic Med restaurant, is a way the community can say "we love you, Dalvir."

Organizers of the event say in the invitation that Nahal's contributions to the community are "almost beyond measure" and she "embodies the compassion and kindness that is at the heart of this community."

Nahal, who is a two-term City of Vernon councillor, was diagnosed with cancer in 2016 and has continued her work in the community.

According to organizers, Nahal's charitable endeavours have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local organizations. Well known for the city's Bollywood Bang fundraiser, the event which aims to bridge divides in the community, has been adopted in other communities. Salmon Arm's Bollywood Bang event raised $189,000 in 2019.

The invitation says Nahal is a friend who always puts others before herself who has "courageously and quietly" battled with cancer and its side effects.

"Not once has Dalvir asked for charity or sympathy in her battle with cancer. Not once has Dalvir let cancer define who she is, or what she does for others," reads the invite.

Organizers say the event is not a fundraiser but a way to support Nahal and give the community an opportunity to say thank you.

The open-house style event takes place Nov. 24, between 4 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at the Eclectic Med restaurant.

While the event is not a fundraiser, those who can not attend but would like to show their support can make a donation to the GoFundMe page that has been set up.

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