The Santa Sleigh Bus is a popular sight to see in Kelowna around the holidays, but have you ever wondered who is behind it all?
Bill Scarrow is part of the program. Scarrow has been a working for First Transit for 10 years now and wanted to take part in the Christmas program because it’s fulfilling.
“I love the season and the smiles you get from the people. There is a feeling of well-being you get by helping so many people.”
Another face behind the magic is Chris Jennens. Jennens has been with First Transit for 23 years and has been working the Santa Bus for seven years.
“I really enjoy seeing the happiest side of our passengers. Watching their eyes light up when the Santa Bus arrives is wonderful. I also very much enjoy working with the other drivers, it’s a great team and a lot of fun to be part of,” Jennens said.
For Heinz Lange, he wanted to be a part of the program because it’s a great cause.
“It keeps the public in tune with what is happening within our community and helps brighten up the day for those families that need help.”
Lange has been working with the Santa Bus for two years now and has been working for First Transit for 27 years.
There are bus drivers who have just started to help out with the bus this year, like Bob Sibson.
Sibson has been working with First Transit for five years and thought he would give the Santa Bus a shot this year.
“It’s very important to give back to the community you live in. I have volunteered with many organizations over the years and it’s a great feeling to be able to give someone an emotional lift and pick up their spirits even if it’s only for a short time.”
Jonathan Saunders is also new to the team.
“It’s a fun way of raising money and donations for families in the Community. I really enjoy the interaction with the schools and retirement homes. I especially enjoy seeing the kids when we pull up to the schools, they love the Santa Bus.”
Saunders mentioned how it’s a great cause and he enjoys working with the group.
The longest running driver with the Santa bus however is Bud Joyner. Joyner has been a bus driver for 35 years and has been working on the Santa bus for 13 years.
“As a Transit Ambassador I get to work with a great team in providing a service that not only promotes transit but helps those that are going through a hard time have a Christmas that they will remember. I also really enjoy working with the Salvation Army and the many sponsors who we depend on to help out.”
For Joyner he enjoys that the Santa bus shows people that bus drivers want to have a positive impact in the community.
Without the help of Bud Joyner, Mike Docherty, Bob Grebinski, and Frank Teichmann the Santa Buss legacy would not be where it is today, Scarrow mentioned.
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