Fort McMurray, AB, September 25, 2025
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wood Buffalo is proud to announce that the 15th Annual SMS Equipment Wine Auction, held September 20 at SMS Equipment Place, raised $134,000 in support of free youth mentoring programs across the region.
This year’s event marked the Wine Auction’s crystal anniversary, celebrating 15 years of community generosity. Funds raised will continue to support mentorship programs that help young people explore their potential, build confidence, and develop the skills and resilience needed to thrive.
“For 15 years, the Wine Auction has been more than an evening of fine wine and entertainment,” said BBBSWB Executive Director Hanna Fridhed. “It’s been a lifeline for thousands of children and youth in Wood Buffalo. Through our free programs, we are creating a stronger, more connected community, one mentor match at a time. We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and the community for their ongoing support.”
The evening began with an intimate VIP Speakeasy before Councillor Allan Grandison proclaimed the day “Big Brothers Big Sisters Day.” Master of Ceremonies Marty Giles then officially opened the celebration, which featured performances by duo Jess & Ruben Rotar, Cree singer-songwriter Ger Carriere, and DJ Nate.
Throughout the night, guests tested their luck at the Wine Pull, a long-standing Wine Auction favourite, and bid generously in both live and silent auctions. Art lovers also gathered to watch muralist Danielle Fairweather at work. She collaborated with our Go Girls Summer Camp students on a vibrant canvas that grew into a shared masterpiece, capturing the spirit of Bigs and Littles.
This milestone evening would not have been possible without the unwavering commitment of our presenting sponsor, SMS Equipment, whose 15 years of support have laid the foundation for growth and sustainability. Year after year, SMS Equipment’s generosity ensures the Wine Auction flourishes, enabling Big Brothers Big Sisters to expand its reach and deepen its impact.
“At SMS Equipment, we want the young people of our community to achieve their full potential regardless of their circumstances,” says Larry Gouthro, General Manager of SMS Equipment. “That is why we have remained committed to presenting the annual wine auction for the past 15 years, directly contributing to the empowerment of children and young adults in our region.”
Special thanks also to our Stage Sponsor, Suncor, who has been a supporter of this event since its inception, Venue Sponsor Fort McMurray 468 First Nation Economic Development, Crystal Sponsor Manitoulin Transport, Château Sponsors AirCon, Leavitt Machinery, and Harvard Media, Brut Sponsors CNC Industries, Cummins, and NorthStar Ford Lincoln, Quartz Sponsors Nord-Lock Group, Q-Line, and Thompson Construction Group, as well as all our Barrel Level, In-Kind, and Supporting Sponsors.
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated Board of Directors and the tireless efforts of our staff, who work year-round to ensure every young person in Wood Buffalo has the opportunity to thrive.
As we celebrate this milestone event, we are already looking ahead to the 16th Annual SMS Equipment Wine Auction, as we aim even higher to meet the growing demand for mentorship programs in our region. To learn more about the Wine Auction and to browse previous events, visit fortmcmurraywineauction.ca