Event Overview

- What: International adaptive sporting competition for wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans.

- When: February 8–16, 2025.

- Where: Hosted in Vancouver and Whistler on the territories of the Four Host First Nations.

- Who: Up to 550 competitors from 25 nations, competing in 11 sports (6 of them winter sports introduced for the first time).

Mission

1. Deliver a world-class Games.

2. Support competitors and families in their recovery journey.

3. Advance reconciliation, inclusion, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.

Values

- Unconquered, Fun, Inspiration, Lifting Others, Excellence, Transformation.

Sports

- Winter: Alpine Skiing, Snowboarding, Biathlon, Cross-Country Skiing, Skeleton, and Wheelchair Curling.

- Others: Indoor Rowing, Sitting Volleyball, Swimming, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Rugby.

Venues

- Vancouver: BC Place, Rogers Arena, Vancouver Convention Centre, Hillcrest Centre, UBC Aquatics Centre.

- Whistler: Whistler Blackcomb, Whistler Olympic Park, Whistler Sliding Centre.

Funding and Partnerships

- Supported by the Government of Canada, BC Province, corporate sponsors like ATCO and Boeing, and others.

- Budget aims for balance and financial legacy.

Broadcast

- Bell Media will provide national live coverage of the opening and closing ceremonies on TSN and CTV.

Volunteers and Family

- Over 1,600 volunteers during the Games.

- Competitors can bring two family members or friends, emphasizing the shared recovery journey.

Sustainability and Legacy Goals

1. Introduce hybrid adaptive sports formats.

2. Provide year-round adaptive sports opportunities.

3. Focus on mental health support for families and friends.

This event marks a milestone for inclusion and innovation in adaptive sports while showcasing the beauty and spirit of Vancouver and Whistler.

The Underused Housing Tax (UHT) has sparked significant concerns among non-resident property owners in Whistler, Pemberton, and Squamish. Here's what you need to know:

• Who is impacted?

  • Non-residents are automatically classified as "affected owners," requiring them to file a return and pay 1% of the property’s assessed value unless an exemption applies.

  • Failing to file? Expect penalties of $5,000 or more.

• Unique Challenges in Whistler:

  • Overly punitive for resort communities dependent on tourism.

  • Exemption for only 28 days of personal use, compared to 6 months in other locations.

  • Confusion has led to increased sales by non-residents and challenges for tax service providers.

• Exemptions Available:

  • New Owners: If you acquired the property during the year and had not owned it in the prior nine years.

  • Death of an Owner: Legal representatives are exempt for the year of passing and the subsequent year.

• Occupancy Exemptions:
  To meet the qualifying occupancy test, the property must have tenants, be rented, or meet other criteria.

• Potential Changes:
  Tourism Whistler is lobbying to expand exemptions for properties zoned for tourism.

• Wondering if UHT affects you?
  Let’s connect to clarify your situation and explore the best strategy to protect your Whistler investment. If needed, I can refer you to a qualified accountant or tax professional to ensure you receive expert advice.

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*Disclosure: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or tax advice. For specific guidance on UHT compliance, exemptions, or filing requirements, consult a qualified tax professional or legal advisor.