Calgary’s Venezuelan community turns cultural celebration into fundraiser for earthquake victims

The Venezuelan Canadian Association of Calgary's annual festival showcasing its culture became a fundraising mission for victims of two deadly earthquakes.

As Venezuela continues to navigate the aftermath of a disastrous pair of earthquakes, the Venezuelan Canadian Association of Calgary held a festival Saturday.

What was supposed to be a weekend of cheerful cultural celebration took on a more serious fundraising mission.

The Taste of Venezuela Festival began with a moment of silence to recognize the suffering of friends and families back home living through the aftermath of two deadly earthquakes.

“This is the opportunity to demonstrate that we are one voice and that together we can do more,” said event organizer Ernesto Gudino.

The event was transformed into a fundraiser to send immediate relief to Venezuela.

“Whether it’s just to come together and celebrate our culture or what we’re doing here, which is raising funds, that’s what’s important for us,” said volunteer David Hermandez, “that we were able to (raise funds) even though we’re so far (away), we’re still able to help out as much as we can.”

“Enjoy the life,” said Gudino. “Do this on the new friends, becuase we have the opportunity here to make a donation.”

It hit close to home for many participants, who have family back home and know others who lost loved ones.

““We see (our) next door neighbors that they can’t find the family -- and they don’t know a thing about them,” said Marivi Vaccaro.

“My uncle’s building did fall down,” Hernandez said, “but thankfully, both of them (uncle and grandma) are okay. We did hear from them recently.”

It was a serious mission, but still a day that featured a cultural celebration at Eau Claire Plaza, with dancing, live music and local food.

“We are working here with s a smile on our faces,” said Vaccaro. “Remember all the Venezuelans suffering? I mean, we’re doing it for this. We’re getting money to send to them to help them.”

“We still feel like it’s important to celebrate love,” said Hernandez. “And as a culture, especially at this moment. And if people are aware, and kind of unifying the country.”

With files from CTV Calgary’s Tommy Osborne