Canadian Tire Jumpstart has launched a new chapter to help financially disadvantaged kids in Airdrie and surrounding areas get involved in organized sport and recreation.
Jumpstart is a national charitable program that helps ‘get kids in the game’ by covering registration, equipment or transportation costs. Since 2005, the program has helped more than 216,000 kids across Canada through its network of local chapters. This is the first year the program has been in Airdrie.
“We are excited to establish a new chapter in Airdrie,” said Peter Miller of Airdrie Canadian Tire.
“With a locally-based chapter, we will be able to help more kids and have an impact on the lives of the kids living right here in Airdrie.”
The new Airdrie chapter will be made up of Airdrie Canadian Tire, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Club of Airdrie and Community Links. As part of this new chapter, these community partners will help identify those who can benefit from the program and help raise funds that stay in the community.
“I think this is great for the community and awesome for the kids,” said Karen MacDonald, executive director of the Airdrie Boys and Girls Club and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Airdrie chapter chair.
“Any money raised here goes straight back into the community. It allows kids in the community to participate in grass roots sports.”
Having access to recreational and social programs positively impacts kids peer relationships, emotional adjustment, conflict resolution skills and academic performance, said MacDonald. Through the Jumpstart program, physical activity is offered in a variety of programs, from team sports, ballet and karate, to rock climbing and outdoor adventures.
“For many kids, there are barriers to experiencing the tremendous benefits that sport and recreation offers,” she said.
“Canadian Tire Jumpstart allows less fortunate kids the opportunity to experience the life benefits of sport and recreation. The benefits are huge to our community. We look forward to working with all the chapter partners, together we will increase the opportunity for children and youth in our community to participate in sports and recreational activities.”
Miller said programs like the Airdrie Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Community Links are what make Jumpstart possible.
“Our customers, staff and community organizations have shown outstanding support and generosity for the Canadian Tire Jumpstart program,” said Miller.
“Now that we have a local chapter, we encourage people to continue to support Canadian Tire Jumpstart whenever they can because the funds raised locally will go to support kids in our community.”
For more information on the Canadian Tire Jumpstart program, visit www.canadiantire.ca/jumpstart
