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UBC’s CampOUT! 2025: An Evening of Support, A Future to Shape

On a summer evening in Vancouver, the spirit of community illuminated every corner of the Christie & David Garofalo residence. Guests gathered for An Evening in Support of CampOUT!—an extraordinary celebration of generosity and purpose presented by Vancity. This signature event raised more than $110,000, including over $23,000 from a spirited silent auction, all to ensure that UBC’s CampOUT! continues to uplift queer, trans, and Two-Spirit youth across British Columbia.

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WHAT IS CAMPOUT!?

CampOUT! is a transformative summer camp program designed specifically for LGBTQ2S+ youth aged 14 to 21. Hosted annually by the UBC Faculty of Education, the camp creates a safe and affirming space where young people can gather from across the province to develop leadership skills, form lasting friendships, and explore identity and resilience through a land-based, community-driven lens. Since its inception, CampOUT! has welcomed more than 1,000 youth participants, offering a vital opportunity for connection, empowerment, and healing.

Each year, 65 youth join the program with full financial accessibility, ensuring that no one is left out due to cost. Through teachings on decolonization, anti-racism, and disability justice, the program cultivates leaders who will carry these values forward in their own lives and communities.

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A GATHERING OF HEARTS AND CHAMPIONS

This year’s fundraiser was more than a party—it was a resounding show of support for the next generation of LGBTQ2S+ leaders. With generous sponsorship from The Lazy Gourmet and wineries LaStella and Le Vieux Pin, guests enjoyed exquisite food and fine wines while engaging in meaningful conversations that reinforced the urgency and value of this work.

The evening was elevated by remarkable performances from Wan-Ting Moi and AndrogynASS, whose presence electrified the crowd with joy and authenticity. British actor Hugh Bonneville lent his unmistakable charm during the live auction, raising $3,300 for a signed book package featuring Downton Abbey and Paddington Bear memorabilia.

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KEEPING THE MOMENTUM

The $110,000 raised will directly support CampOUT!’s continued efforts to build a more inclusive and just world—one camper at a time. The need is ongoing. The impact is lasting. Help continue to grow this movement, please donate HERE!

campout, ubc, fundraiser, folioyvr, helen siwak, vancouver, bc, lgbtq, west coast luxury

Collage Photography by Kyrani Kanavaros

Author Profile

Helen Siwak, Luxury Lifestyle Observer: Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].