We are a little over halfway through October, meaning we are almost through another year of The Gratitude Project. But that doesn’t mean it’s time to let up just yet.

On Tuesday afternoon, The Gratitude Project hosted yet another uplifting and fun-filled event, this time with very important guests in the spotlight.

Though the initiative’s events surround cultivating gratitude and expressing it towards local first responders, Kelowna RCMP received star treatment at the inaugural year of the RCMP Gratitude event, hosted at their new facility.

“Up until now, the community hasn’t been given a platform to really express our gratitude for everything they do for us,” says Melissa Kuan, one of the organizers of the event.

Photo credit: KelownaNow

“There is a lot of negativity surrounding the RCMP via the media, but they don’t actually get to hear what the people living in their community actually feel,” added Kuan

Local officials, their families, and community members gathered in the new facility's parking lot to participate in an evening of fun, education, and gratitude.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow

RCMP officers, families and children had the chance to participate in a number of activities like a cookie eating competition, face painting, and a photo booth.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow

The event also played host to a number of local speakers who wanted to share their gratitude, including Mayor Colin Basran, Superintendent Ray Carfantan, Karen Mason of the Kelowna Women’s Shelter, Lawrence East of Metro Central and Tim Schroeder of Trinity Baptist Church.

Not only were attendees able to enjoy a host of activities, but they also had the chance to get up close to a number of vehicles and equipment our local RCMP have access to.

Photo Credit: KelownaNow

An opportunity to say “thank you” while getting to know our local officers and more about their trade, this event warmed the hearts of all in attendance.