Annual event gives attendees a chance to bid on original artwork with volunteer hours instead of money

Kamloops residents will have another opportunity to combine a night out with giving back to the community when Volunteer Kamloops hosts its 2026 Timeraiser on Friday, Oct. 16, at the Kamloops Courthouse Gallery Society.

The event begins at 6 p.m. and offers a different kind of auction experience. Rather than bidding with money, guests pledge volunteer hours to local non-profit organizations in exchange for the chance to take home original artwork.

Terri Hadwin, Time Raiser Committee Lead, said the event reflects the values that motivate her work in the community.

“For me, it hits every little part of my heart. I’m very much driven by community and by supporting the arts, and I think that this event just captures all of that,” Hadwin said.

The Timeraiser model was brought to Kamloops by September Kuromi after she learned about the event in Ontario. Hadwin said the event was once held in several communities, but fewer locations continue to host it today.

Kamloops remains among them, along with Regina and, more recently, Barcelona.

A central part of the evening is its commitment to local artists. Artwork is purchased rather than donated, reflecting the organizers’ belief that artists should be compensated for their work.

The event also provides an opportunity for people who are interested in volunteering but may not know where to begin. A variety of non-profit organizations will be on hand for attendees to learn about volunteer opportunities and find a cause that fits their interests and availability.

Hadwin said the event can be a particularly enjoyable introduction to volunteering.

“If you’re thinking that you want to start volunteering, it’s probably just the most fun way to get involved in volunteering because you get to meet with so many different nonprofit groups and learn about what their volunteer needs are,” Hadwin said.

For those who are not looking to make a volunteer commitment, the evening still offers a social experience centred around art, food and community. Hadwin described the atmosphere as “very casual, yet sophisticated.”

This year’s event will feature live music from The Journeymen, while Blue Collar Catering will provide refreshments. A cash bar will also be available.

The future of the Timeraiser could bring changes if its popularity continues to grow. Last year’s event sold out, and organizers are on track for another sellout this year. That could eventually mean finding a larger venue.

Hadwin said the possibility is both exciting and daunting, particularly because organizers enjoy holding the event at the old courthouse.

“We just love, love, love holding it at the old courthouse. And so we don’t know if every year we’re going to continue to sell out or if we’re going to have to get bigger,” Hadwin said.

For now, organizers are preparing to welcome another crowd for an evening where art, social connection and community service come together under one roof.