How this softball game is breaking stigma in the community

On an overcast day, staff from Peter’s Independent Grocer gear up for a special softball game that happens a few times a year.

But what makes this event truly remarkable is that they invite staff and clients from Kelowna's Gospel Mission (KGM) to join them on the field.

“We have to be part of the community, and here’s a wonderful opportunity to be mixing in with some great people,” Peter Boyd told Kelowna10. “We try and play twice a year and we want it to be our staff, their staff, and some of the participants from the Gospel Mission. We want to remove the stigma of the clients.”

Boyd hopes other business will follow a similar approach to his own.

“I would certainly encourage all community partners to get out and have some fun. Baseball’s a great game that everybody can play, and it’s a wonderful way to connect,” he said.

The games have evolved into a profound experience for both Peter's Independent Grocer employees and those from Kelowna's Gospel Mission.

KGM Executive Director Carmen Rempel explained that these games are about being on the same level and building community.

“One of the best things about this day is that you don’t know who’s who. You don’t know who’s Peter’s Independent, you don’t know who’s staff, you don’t know who’s a client of our shelter,” she explained. “Everybody is just out here playing together as equals and there’s something powerful about that.”

To learn about how Kelowna's Gospel Mission is helping in the community, visit kelownagospelmission.ca.