You can dance if you want to—for New West Family Place

Dana Osiowy knows the importance of a parent's night out. 

As the executive director of New West Family Place, she and her team are gearing up for Get Fancy for Family Place on Nov. 29 – their first in-person fundraiser since, as she puts it, "the before times."

“As a parent, it feels incredible to take a sliver of time away from your primary role as a caregiver and enjoy a night out with your sweetie and friends. It’s why we’re having a dance party. It’s a chance for all of us to reconnect with our community, with ourselves and with the all-too-rare concept of fun,” says Osiowy.

Knowing that Family Place’s client base is primarily parents with young children, it was important to her that the event’s hours—7 to 10pm—be accommodating to potential midnight and early-morning wakeups.

“I am so into an event that ends at a reasonable hour,” she says. “It allows for multigenerational participation—something at the heart of our organization—and ensures caregivers and carers of all ages can take part and support New Westminster families."

Accessibility is one of the core values of Family Place and its community programming. Osiowy and her team are diligent about providing spaces that are welcoming to all.

“We work so hard to ensure all of our programs and drop-ins are accessible and welcome to every person,” she says. “We’re holding Get Fancy at Centennial Lodge and this gorgeous venue is totally accessible, as are the washrooms, and we have ensured that the lighting, seating, and the table set up is accommodating for all users.”

Proceeds from the night’s festivities—which include a DJ, silent auction, 50/50 draw, party snacks, and bar by donation—will go towards supporting Family Place’s programming, as well as its search for a permanent base of operations.

“As some might have heard, we will have to vacate our amazing community space at the Qayqayt Neighbourhood Learning Centre, and with that comes extra costs,” says Osiowy. “We are raising funds to support this move and to enhance the amazing programming that we offer at our locations at Qayqayt and Massey Theatre.”

Board member Tammy Dewar knows first-hand the positive impact of this programming and how important it is for parents in the New Westminster community.

“I know the support and connections the staff at Family Place provide to families in New West are invaluable,” she says. “After my daughter was born, she and I attended Family Place's drop-in play times fairly regularly. I loved being able to bring my little one to group playtime, connect with other parents who were going through the same kinds of things, and talk with staff who are experts in family support and early child development. In lots of ways, they were my village. I was so grateful to have them supporting me. I saw and experienced first hand how important this resource is for new families.”

It’s why she joined the board, and has stayed on, working to support an organization she sees as invaluable in the city.

“Family Place is free for all families and all families are welcome—inclusive of gender, background, socioeconomic status. It is one of the very first places children in our community are supported—where they and their families are welcomed, loved, and celebrated."

To Dewar, there is no better reason to get fancy with friends.

“I cannot wait to get dressed up, to bust out some dance moves, have fun, and raise some money for a great cause.”

Get Fancy for Family Place takes place Tuesday, Nov. 29 at Centennial Lodge from 7 to 10pm. Tickets are $20 and include a drink ticket.