Here, you’ll find a rundown of all the latest happenings and achievements throughout the REEL Earth Day Challenge (April 8th-19th, 2024). Stay tuned as we provide morning updates on the daily winners of our team challenges and celebrate the park projects that have been funded through our initiative! Updated daily at 10am PST.
Challenges run until 11:59pm each day. Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays are combined days.
The 2024 REEL Earth Day Challenge winners are… team Virgin River!
It was Virgin River who made the biggest splash, raising a miraculous $25,960 for regional parks!
In second place, Family Law proved they are legal experts in the green court of conservation, raising an honourable $20,890.
In third place, Final Destination 6 demonstrated they were destined for greatness, raising an incredible $14,732.
Together, we’re rewriting the script for a greener, more sustainable future! Happy Earth Day, everyone! Let’s continue to collaborate and innovate, using the power of film and the beauty of nature to make a positive impact on our planet.
Once again, congratulations to team Virgin River, and thank you to all participants for making the 2024 REEL Earth Day Challenge an unforgettable success!
With gratitude and greenery,
Your friends at Reel Green™ at Creative BC & Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Foundation
Project 7 Funded: Sedge Field Restoration
Sedge Field Restoration in Aldergrove Regional Park has been fully funded! Another $20,000 from the #REELEarthDayChallenge allows us to restore and preserve this vital natural space.
The Sedge Field restoration project holds immense importance for ecological restoration and community well-being. By removing invasive species like blackberry bushes and preparing the field for replanting with native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers, we’re taking meaningful steps towards mitigating habitat loss, supporting local wildlife populations, and fostering a healthier environment for all.
Day 10 Recap: April 19th-21st
Daily Challenge: Biggest Cumulative Donor – The team with the biggest cumulative donor throughout the challenge (not including prize top ups).
Daily Challenge Winners:
1st: Henry Danger/Family Law – $5,000
2nd: Henry Danger/Family Law – $3,000
3rd: Virgin River – $2,000
⭐⭐⭐ DOUBLE YOUR IMPACT ⭐⭐⭐
All funds raised (outside of sponsor prize top ups and challenges) throughout the REEL Earth Day Challenge have been DOUBLED by Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Foundation! Act fast – limited matching funds are available until 11:59pm on April 21st. Don’t miss this opportunity to amplify your support for greener, healthier parks!
✨ AND THE LUXURY HOTEL RAFFLE WINNERS ARE… ✨
Teams: Family Law (Shangri-la Vancouver) & Alert (Inn at Laurel Point Victoria)
Please contact Julie Bernard to claim your prize.
Project 6 Funded: Grand Fir Trail Restoration
Another $15,000 raised by the REEL Earth Day Challenge marks a significant milestone!
Grand Fir trails hold immense significance in maintaining the ecological integrity of Pacific Spirit Regional Park while providing visitors with memorable outdoor experiences. Through strategic measures such as unsanctioned trail closures, forest underplanting, and removal of invasive species, our project aims to restore the natural habitat, protect sensitive ecosystems, and promote biodiversity.
By restoring Grand Fir trails, we’re not only safeguarding the regional park’s natural beauty but also ensuring safer and more enjoyable recreational opportunities for all visitors. Your support has made it possible for us to take proactive steps towards environmental conservation and sustainable park management.
Day Nine Recap: April 18th
Daily Challenge: Daily Top Team – The team that raises the most money each day before midnight (not including prize top ups).
Daily Challenge Winners:
1st: Family Law – $2,500
2nd: Final Destination 6 – $1,500
3rd: Earth Abides – $1,000
⭐⭐⭐ DOUBLE YOUR IMPACT ⭐⭐⭐
Have you checked your team totals this morning? All funds raised (outside of sponsor prize top ups and challenges) throughout the REEL Earth Day Challenge have been DOUBLED by Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Foundation! Act fast – limited matching funds are available until 11:59pm on April 21st. Don’t miss this opportunity to amplify your support for greener, healthier parks!
✨ LUXURY HOTEL DRAW HAPPENING FRIDAY MORNING! ✨
Get ready for a fabulous Friday morning treat! If your team has completed the Eco Challenge Checklist, you’re automatically entered into a draw to win a luxurious stay at Shangri La Vancouver or Inn at Laurel Point in Victoria. Picture yourself indulging in pampering amenities, surrounded by the stunning beauty of our region. It’s the perfect reward for your commitment to sustainability. Tune in Friday morning to see if your team is one of the lucky winners!
Next Challenge (April 19th-21st): Biggest Cumulative Donor: The team with the biggest cumulative donor throughout the challenge (not including prize top ups).
Reminder: Complete your Eco-Prize Checklist for a one-time $1,000 team top up, and be entered to win one of two Vancouver luxury hotel getaways! Additionally, teams can schedule a set visit for another one-time $1,000 top up!
Project 5 Funded: Indigenous-led Summer Camps
Indigenous-led Summer Camps in regional parks are now funded! 🙌 We’ve reached another $15,000 milestone, paving the way for an enriching and empowering experience for all participants.
“Mishkoopitum” summer camps, hosted by CTS Youth Society, are more than just camps – they are a celebration of Indigenous knowledge, culture, and connection to the land. In these culturally rich environments, participants have the opportunity to learn from Indigenous practices, fostering a deep appreciation for heritage and traditions.
Through storytelling, traditional crafts, and land-based learning, these summer camps offer invaluable opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual understanding. Together, we’re creating spaces where everyone can come together to learn, grow, and celebrate the diverse tapestry of Indigenous cultures.
Day Eight Recap: April 17th
Daily Challenge: Most Donors – The team with the most individual donors throughout the entire challenge by the end of Day 8 (not including prize top ups).
Daily Challenge Winners:
1st: Final Destination 6 – $1,500
2nd: Virgin River – $1,000
3rd: Family Law – $1,000
⭐BONUS QUICK CHALLENGE⭐
SEND US A MEME! (hello@mvrpfoundation.ca) First team meme submission will receive a $1,000 top up, and subsequent teams will receive a $500 top up. Limit of one top up prize per team. Keep it #EarthDay or #REELEarthDayChallenge themed!
Deadline: April 18th @ 11:59pm.
Next Challenge (April 18th): Daily Top Team – The team that raises the most money each day before midnight (not including prize top ups).
Reminder: Complete your Eco-Prize Checklist for a one-time $1,000 team top up, and be entered to win one of two Vancouver luxury hotel getaways! Additionally, teams can schedule a set visit for another one-time $1,000 top up!
Project 4 Funded: Reforestation Maintenance
Reforestation Maintenance in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park has reached its funding goal of $15,000! Thanks to the REEL Earth Day Challenge we’re now able to embark on this crucial journey towards preserving and protecting our precious ecosystem.
In a looper moth impacted area of Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, reforestation maintenance is more than just planting trees – it’s about securing the long-term resilience of our environment. By nurturing these newly planted trees, we’re ensuring the ecosystem’s ability to withstand future disturbances and thrive for generations to come.
This project isn’t just about trees – it’s about safeguarding the integrity and safety of our region while promoting sustainable forest management practices. Your contributions have made it possible for us to take a proactive step towards environmental stewardship and conservation.
Day Seven Recap: April 16th
Daily Challenge: Daily Top Team – The team that raises the most money each day before midnight (not including prize top ups).
Daily Challenge Winners:
1st: Virgin River – $2,500
2nd: Final Destination 6 – $1,500
3rd: Family Law – $1,000
⭐BONUS QUICK CHALLENGE⭐
SEND US A MEME! (hello@mvrpfoundation.ca) First team meme submission will receive a $1,000 top up, and subsequent teams will receive a $500 top up. Limit of one top up prize per team. Keep it #EarthDay or #REELEarthDayChallenge themed!
Deadline: April 18th @ 11:59pm.
Next Challenge (April 17th): Most Donors – The team with the most individual donors throughout the challenge by Day 8 (not including prize top ups).
Reminder: Complete your Eco-Prize Checklist for a one-time $1,000 team top up, and be entered to win one of two Vancouver luxury hotel getaways! Additionally, teams can schedule a set visit for another one-time $1,000 top up!
Day Six Recap: April 15th
Daily Challenge: Best REEL – Create a captivating Instagram REEL! Ideas: Share your favourite regional park, tell us a sustainability tip, rock a lipsync… just make it green themed! Make sure to use #ReelEarthDayChallenge and mention your team name.
Daily Challenge Winners:
1st: Virgin River – $2,500
2nd: Final Destination 6 – $1,500
3rd: Unclaimed – $1,000
Next Challenge (April 16th): Daily Top Team – The team that raises the most money each day before midnight (not including prize top ups).
Reminder: Complete your Eco-Prize Checklist for a one-time $1,000 team top up, and be entered to win one of two Vancouver luxury hotel getaways! Additionally, teams can schedule a set visit for another one-time $1,000 top up!
Day Five Recap: April 12th-14th
Daily Challenge: Daily Top Team – the team that raises the most money each day before midnight (not including prize top ups).
Bonus Deadline: All donations from today until 11:59pm on Sunday April 14th will be counted in Fridays totals.
Daily Challenge Winners:
1st: Virgin River – $2,500
2nd: Alert – $1,500
3rd: Family Law – $1,000
Next Challenge (April 15th): Best REEL – Create a captivating Instagram REEL! Ideas: Share your favourite regional park, tell us a sustainability tip, rock a lipsync… just make it green themed! Make sure to use #ReelEarthDayChallenge and mention your team name.
Reminder: Complete your Eco-Prize Checklist for a one-time $1,000 team top up, and be entered to win one of two Vancouver luxury hotel getaways! Additionally, teams can schedule a set visit for another one-time $1,000 top up!
⭐ BONUS QUICK CHALLENGE ⭐
Send us a quote (hello@mvrpfoundation.ca) that we can use as a testimonial related to sustainability in the film industry or the value of the REEL Earth Day Challenge (REDC). Please include your team name in the e-mail. Note that your quote (along with your first name, last initial) may be used in future REDC materials. The first team submission will receive a $1,000 top up, and subsequent teams will receive a $500 top up. Limit of one top up prize per team.
Example: “[The REEL Earth Day Challenge] made me appreciate how important it is to take care of where we live, and how we can all make positive steps for a better, greener world.” – Brett D, Team Captain 2023
Deadline: April 14th @ 11:59pm.
Project 3 Funded: Floodgate & Salmon Research
We’re thrilled to announce that Floodgate & Salmon Research in ƛ̓éxətəm Regional Park is now funded! Thanks to the REEL Earth Day Challenge, we’ve raised another $20,000 to pave the way for crucial research that will have a lasting impact on our environment.
This project is not just about floodgates – it’s about the health of our ecosystems and the future of salmon populations in the Coquitlam River. Through this research, we’ll investigate how different floodgate designs affect fish passage, particularly salmon, shedding light on ways to improve conditions for these vital species.
Salmon aren’t just important for our local ecosystem – they’re a cornerstone of our cultural and ecological heritage. By understanding and mitigating the impact of floodgates, we’re not only safeguarding salmon populations but also ensuring the health and resilience of our entire ecosystem.
This innovative study is in partnership with Resilient Waters, UBC Pacific Salmon Lab, kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem First Nation), and Metro Vancouver Regional Parks.
Day Four Recap: April 11th
Daily Challenge: Instagram Draw – Anyone can enter the Instagram Draw to support their team by posting about the event, their favourite team, or why Metro Vancouver Regional Parks are important. Use #ReelEarthDayChallenge + your favourite team’s name for a chance to win! Posts or stories are eligible. Make sure to tag @mvrpfoundation.ca or send us a screenshot if you have a private account.
Daily Challenge Winners:
1st: Virgin River – $2,500
2nd: Final Destination 6 – $2,000
3rd: Alert – $1,000
Next Challenge (April 12th-14th): Daily Top Team – the team that raises the most money each day before midnight (not including prize top ups).
Reminder: Complete your Eco-Prize Checklist for a one-time $1,000 team top up, and be entered to win one of two Vancouver luxury hotel getaways! Additionally, teams can schedule a set visit for another one-time $1,000 top up!
⭐ BONUS QUICK CHALLENGE ⭐
Send us a quote (hello@mvrpfoundation.ca) that we can use as a testimonial related to sustainability in the film industry or the value of the REEL Earth Day Challenge (REDC). Please include your team name in the e-mail. Note that your quote (along with your first name, last initial) may be used in future REDC materials. The first team submission will receive a $1,000 top up, and subsequent teams will receive a $500 top up. Limit of one top up prize per team.
Example: “[The REEL Earth Day Challenge] made me appreciate how important it is to take care of where we live, and how we can all make positive steps for a better, greener world.” – Brett D, Team Captain 2023
Deadline: April 14th @ 11:59pm.
Day Three Recap: April 10th
Daily Challenge: Daily Top Team
Daily Challenge Winners:
1st: Alert – $2,500
2nd: Tie: Family Law + Virgin River – $1,500
3rd: Tie: Family Law + Virgin River – $1,000
Next Challenge (April 11th): Instagram Draw – Anyone can enter the Instagram Draw to support their team by posting about the event, their favourite team, or why Metro Vancouver Regional Parks are important. Use #ReelEarthDayChallenge + your favourite team’s name for a chance to win! Posts or stories are eligible. Make sure to tag @mvrpfoundation.ca or send us a screenshot if you have a private account.
Reminder: Complete your Eco-Prize Checklist for a one-time $1,000 team top up, and be entered to win one of two Vancouver luxury hotel getaways! Additionally, teams can schedule a set visit for another one-time $1,000 top up!
⭐ BONUS QUICK CHALLENGE ⭐
Send us a quote (hello@mvrpfoundation.ca) that we can use as a testimonial related to sustainability in the film industry or the value of the REEL Earth Day Challenge (REDC). Please include your team name in the e-mail. Note that your quote (along with your first name, last initial) may be used in future REDC materials. First team submission will receive a $1,000 top up, and subsequent teams will receive a $500 top up. Limit of one top up prize per team.
Example: “[The REEL Earth Day Challenge] made me appreciate how important it is to take care of where we live, and how we can all make positive steps for a better, greener world.” – Brett D, Team Captain 2023
Deadline: April 14th @ 11:59pm.
Project 2 Funded: Pond Creation
We are ecstatic to announce that our project to create a pond at Rowlatt Farmstead in Campbell Valley Regional Park has been fully funded! Thanks to the support and generosity of the REEL Earth Day Challenge, we’ve raised another $10,000, making this vital habitat opportunity a reality.
The creation of this pond is more than just a project – it’s an investment in biodiversity and the health of our ecosystem. By providing a freshwater habitat, we’re opening doors for a diverse array of plant and animal species, from amphibians and insects to birds and aquatic plants. This pond will serve as a haven, allowing these vital members of our ecosystem to thrive and flourish.
We’re beyond grateful for each and every one of you who contributed to making this happen.
Day Two Recap: April 9th
Daily Challenge: Best Poster
Daily Challenge Winners:
1st: Virgin River – $2,500
2nd: Tracker – $1,500
3rd: Family Law – $1,000
Next Challenge (April 10th): Daily Top Team – the team that raises the most money each day before midnight (not including prize top ups).
Reminder: Complete your Eco-Prize Checklist for a one-time $1,000 team top up, and be entered to win one of two Vancouver luxury hotel getaways! Additionally, teams can schedule a set visit for another one-time $1,000 top up!
Project 1 Funded: Indigenous Public Programming
We’re overjoyed to share that we’ve hit our first fundraising goal of $3,000 to make our park project, Indigenous Public Programming in East Area Parks, a reality! This incredible combination of support propels us even further towards our mission.
Thanks to the REEL Earth Day Challenge, we’re now empowered to bring Indigenous programming to regional parks. From Indigenous plant walks to skills stations, these activities will immerse park users in Indigenous culture and deepen their connection to the land.
Moreover, this milestone underscores our collective commitment to fostering understanding, respect, and appreciation for Indigenous heritage and the environment.
Day One Recap: April 8th
Daily Challenge: First Donation (The first donation after midnight on April 8th).
Daily Challenge Winners:
1st: Final Destination 6 – $2,500
2nd: Alert – $1,500
3rd: Henry Danger – $1,000
Next Challenge (April 9th): Best Poster – Have someone from your team put their design skills to the test and create a REEL Earth Day Poster (judged by the Creative BC team). Can be 1-2 pages.
Reminder: Complete your Eco-Prize Checklist for a one-time $1,000 team top up, and be entered to win one of two Vancouver luxury hotel getaways! Additionally, teams can schedule a set visit for another one-time $1,000 top up!
Daily Challenge Calendar
First Donation: The first donation after midnight on April 8th. | 1st: $2,500 2nd: $1,500 3rd: $1,000
Best Poster: Have someone from your team put their design skills to the test and create a REEL Earth Day Poster (judged by the Creative BC team). Can be 1-2 pages. | 1st: $2,000 2nd: $1,500 3rd: $1,000
Daily Top Team: The team that raises the most money each day before midnight (not including prize top ups) is considered the “Top Team” of the day. | 1st: $2,500 2nd: $1,500 3rd: $1,000
Most Donors: The team with the most individual donors throughout the challenge by day 8 (not including prize top ups). | 1st: $1,500 2nd: $1,000 3rd: $1,000
Instagram Draw: Anyone can enter the Instagram Draw to support their team by posting about the event, their favourite team, or why Metro Vancouver Regional Parks are important. Use #ReelEarthDayChallenge + your favourite team’s name for a chance to win! | 1st: $2,500 2nd: $2,000 3rd: $1,000
Best Reel: Create a captivating Instagram reel! Ideas: Share your favourite regional park, tell us a sustainability tip, rock a lipsync… just make it green themed! Make sure to use #ReelEarthDayChallenge and mention your team name. | 1st: $2,500 2nd: $1,500 3rd: $1,000
Biggest Cumulative Donor: The team with the biggest cumulative donor throughout the challenge (not including prize top ups). | 1st: $5,000 2nd: $3,000 3rd: $2,000
Participating teams have the opportunity to win additional funds by completing an on-set checklist aimed at minimizing ecological footprint during film production. This checklist encompasses a range of eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction, energy conservation, and sustainable sourcing. If a team completes a minimum of five out of the nine items listed, they become eligible for an additional one-time $1,000 top-up prize. This incentivizes participants to actively engage in sustainable filmmaking practices, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship within the industry. Visit reelearthdaychallenge.ca/checklist to complete now!
All team entries will be entered to win one of three Vancouver luxury hotel getaways!
Daily Sponsor Calendar
Questions?
