Three Airdrie non-profit organizations are in the running to win $5,000 in CIR Reality’s In My Backyard online competition.
SMART Recovery Airdrie, Supporting Local Area Musicians (SLAM) and the W.H. Croxford Football Program are competing for the public’s votes in four separate categories.
SMART Recovery Airdrie and SLAM are up against many Calgary non-profits for the top prize in Category 1 - Locally registered non-profits.
“We would use the $5,000 to buy new sound equipment,” said President of SLAM Airdrie Jay Stout. “(That amount) is about the cost for us to purchase our sound equipment.”
SLAM’s mission is to unite the musicians in our community, to organize local events providing opportunities for everyone to perform and promote the talent in Airdrie.
“A vote for SLAM in Airdrie means you will be part of a movement that is growing and building a vibrant arts community in Airdrie,” SLAM’s application states.
“The benefit would be not just for ourselves,” Stout said. “We loan it our to own members. Right now, we have to rent out equipment for our shows and that dips into our (available) funds.”
As of press time, SLAM had received 27 votes.
“Any supporters of live music in the community (We’re hoping) will step up and give us a vote,” Stout said.
Those wanting to enter the contest can do so until Oct. 31. Voting will be open to the public from Sept. 15 to Oct. 31 on the companies website www.inmybackyard.com
SMART Recovery Airdrie’s application outlined the need for their programming to help those that are struggling with addiction. “The reality of substance abusers is that the majority are just like everyone else. They are parents, children, friends, workmates, sisters and brothers. Wouldn’t it be great to hear of these numerous stories of determination and courage, and have the message passed along that treatment can work and recovery is possible?” their application states.
As of press time SMART Recovery Airdrie had received three votes.
Calls to SMART Recovery Airdrie were not returned as of press time.
Hoping to take the top spot in the Category 3 - Youth extracurricular grant – the W.H. Croxford Football Program is hoping to earn enough votes to win a $5,000 top prize for the new schools football program.
“A football team is a vital piece to creating culture at W.H. Croxford High School. Giving youth a place to pursue their passions outside of the regular curriculum offered in schools is vital to ensuring the next generation learns key life lessons. A quality, properly funded football program at W.H. Croxford High School will contribute greatly to making the school a great place for kids,” their application states.
As of press time, W.H. Croxford had received 41 votes.
Calls to CIR were not immediately returned as of press time.
