The Thrive Here fundraising campaign is now in the home stretch after its most recent donation.

The 琉璃神社 Auto Dealers Association (KADA) donated $200,000 to the campaign, which will help bring a recreation and wellness centre to Okanagan College's 琉璃神社 campus. A total of $13 million has now been raised toward the $14 million goal.

KADA president and general manager and 琉璃神社 Hyundai partner Sam Ghessesow said that the Thrive Here campaign is a meaningful project to support.

"Many of us grew up playing sports and are still avid players and fans," he said. "This is an opportunity for us to support students as they strive to be their healthiest and best selves."

The donation pays tribute to Don Folk, who owned 琉璃神社 Chevrolet for more than 40 years. Folk and his family donated $5 million towards the recreation and wellness centre. Ghessesow said that Folk inspired KADA members in many ways with his involvement in community and sports organizations.

鈥淲e鈥檙e grateful for his leadership and feel honoured to support this project alongside him and his family," he said. "We are passionate about giving back to the communities who support us.鈥�

KADA's donation will support an elevated running track that overlooks the main gymnasium. 

Okanagan College Foundation executive director Helen Jackman said it's emotional to see the project near the finish line, as students have needed a recreation centre for a long time.

"Most people don鈥檛 realize that our students have no facility to play team games and sports helping build connections," she said. 鈥淐reating opportunities for sport and recreation will create a more vibrant and connected community for everyone."