A Chilliwack woman has added a hometown hike to her annual fundraiser that supports Chilliwack Search and Rescue.
Angela Painter started up Operation Little Black Dress in 2012. It's a hiking event where women climb a mountain together and then once they reach the summit, change into in a black dress and fancy shoes and then take a group photo, often with a celebratory drink in hand, all to raise money for the volunteer search-and-rescue organization.
"Not only is this an empowering day in the mountains with a group of strong, beautiful like minded women, but we will also be raising funds for Chilliwack Search and Rescue," Painter said.
To participate, hikers make a donation to Chilliwack Search and Rescue.
In addition to the annual hike up Stawamus Chief in Squamish, this year Painter is adding a second hike at Qoqó:lem trail in Sardis, which is a gentler hike.
"This will give all the ladies an option to hike an easier trail, still getting the opportunity to participate in a fun little black dress photo up top while raising funds for Chilliwack Search and Rescue."
The Operation Little Black Dress hike at Qoqó:lem trail is on Saturday, Aug. 9 at 9 a.m., while the one in Squamish is on Sunday, Aug. 10 at 7:30 a.m.
Women should bring a backpack with a lunch or snacks and enough water for a few hours of moderate hiking, plus a black dress and heels (or flip flops), and a mini can or bottle of sparkling wine or another drink.
"All of the participants in Operation Little Black Dress are avid hikers and we are all aware that an accident can happen to any of us at any time which makes Search and Rescue the perfect fundraising fit."
People can either donate cash in-person on the day of the event, or make an online donation at chilliwacksar.org/donate. Participants are asked to mention in the comments: “on behalf of Operation Little Black Dress” when donating online.
To RSVP: click here for the Qoqó:lem hike on Aug. 9, here for the Stawamus Chief on Aug. 10, or email Angela Painter at aspainter7@gmail.com.
