Mike W. Bruant
Northern News Services

Yellowknife ( May 12/00) - While this year's spring trade show has over 100 local businesses vying for the public eye, eight non-profit organizations will also be trying to drum up some support at the weekend event.

Non-profit exhibitors are hoping that the thronging crowds attending the weekend trade show -- perhaps looking for a good deal and maybe some freebies -- will take the time to listen to what they have to say.

"We are trying to promote trade and technology as first choice career options," said Heather Hay, a co-ordinator for student education group, Skills Canada.

"We want parents and educators to be more aware of the future career possibilities in this field."

The Stanton Regional Hospital Foundation is hoping to draw the public to their booth through a raffle, with a 1.23 carat diamond -- valued at almost $20,000 dollars -- as the main prize.

"We will have our diamond with us," said Sue Glowach, spokesperson for the foundation.

"BHP and Diamet minerals Ltd. has donated five stones to us over the next five years."

If the gigantic gem does not seem enticing enough, the foundation is also offering $1,000 cash and a trip for two to Ekati mine to see where the diamonds are produced. Tickets for the raffle are going fast.

Lorne Gushue, president of the board for the Yellowknife AIDS Society, spoke of the importance of non-profit organizations getting involved with the trade show. He said that non-profit organizations are crucial because they raise money -- along with awareness -- which serves to propel worthwhile projects and generate income within the economy.

"It's important to have non-profits at a trade show because the contribution that non-profits make to the economy is huge, even though it's not quantified," Gushue said.