On January 29, the Family Resource Centre in Invermere invites you to celebrate the Chinese New Year at Deb’s Night Out.

The event will take place at Eagle Ranch once again this year. Tickets are $40 and are available at the Family Resource Centre and Tim Hortons.

The event was originally spearheaded by Deb Neault, who passed away last year. The event has been named after her in honour of her contribution to domestic violence programs and awareness.

The Chinese New Year event is a fundraiser for domestic violence programs for women and children seeking counselling, intervention, support and other assistance.

Funds will also be going towards a new women’s shelter, which is nearing completion and will be able to offer temporary, safe accommodation for women and children who need it.

“It’s great to have this event back to support the community,” said Spencer Buck, assistant clubhouse manager at Eagle Ranch. “It’s always fun to do.” He added that the funds go to a very worthwhile cause in the community. Cocktails will be served at 6 p.m., and a buffet dinner to serve 150 guests will begin at 7 p.m.

Marc LeBlanc, executive chef at Eagle Ranch, will be creating a variety of Oriental foods, with authentic recipes from Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, to name a few.

“We’re trying to use local ingredients and meat,” said LeBlanc. “We’re trying interesting, fun and unique things that usually aren’t seen in the Valley.”

The Chinese New Year event was started by Deb Neault as a means for women to get out in the winter days and enjoy themselves among friends. Today, the event is hosted by the Family Resource Centre, and still remains to be about getting women together, enjoying each others’ company, and raising awareness about domestic violence.

“Deb was very passionate about helping women and children dealing with domestic violence in our community,” said Pat Cope, executive director at the Family Resource Centre. “She would have been pleased and supportive of the Family Resource Centre continuing the legacy she began with Deb’s Night Out and other domestic violence programs.”

Those who are unable to attend the event, but wish to donate to the new women’s shelter and domestic violence programs, can call the Family Resource Centre for information at 250-342-5566.