Biking For Our Community: Kelowna Cycles For Strong Kids Once More on June 2
When Tammie Watson walks through the Rutland YMCA to her office every day, she sees firsthand the impact that the Cycle for Strong Kids fundraiser has on families.
“I walk through our childminding and preschool sections every morning I come in to work, and I see all these little children laughing and playing with the biggest smiles on their face, they're just ear to ear. They're so happy to be here,” says the VP of marketing and philanthropy.
“Then I see the parents leaving and you can visibly see the comfort in their body language knowing that their children are being very well taken care of, that they’re in a safe space, and will have an amazing time.”
Each year, the YMCA of Southern Interior BC provides services to over 20,000 local children and youth. More than a quarter of them come from low-income households and would be unable to participate in their programs and services without the support of community donors.
Presented by the Payton and Dillon Budd Memorial Fund, the Cycle for Strong Kids fundraiser is back on June 2nd and will be bigger and better than ever. Fresh Air Kelowna is a longtime supporter of the fundraiser and will donate $5,000 towards the top fundraising team’s total.
New location, more engagement for the community
This year, the Y’s largest fundraiser will be transformed into a community event for the whole family thanks to a new Kids’ Zone with a barbecue, bouncy castles, NHL Street Hockey, photo booth, games, prizes, and more at a new location in Stuart Park.
“By taking it downtown and being at Stuart Park, there's going to be a little bit more awareness of the event itself, which will create awareness for the programs and the services that the Y provides for our vulnerable children and youth,” says Tammie Watson, VP, Marketing & Philanthropy.
The kid’s zone will be open to the public by donation and is open to the whole family. You don’t have to be registered to ride with the fundraiser to come down, have a snack, play some games, and support the community.
Life-changing support
Beyond childcare and access to fitness facilities, all funds from the Cycle for Strong Kids event support essential services including free or subsidized membership, family supports, drop-out prevention, and mental health services, to help Kelowna youth succeed, no matter their economic background.
The Y provides high-quality programs through 23 schools and Interior Health to help keep at-risk youth on the right path and provide one-on-one support, including mental health resources and job-finding assistance to help youth graduate, they even provide food.
“We have at-risk youth coming to us who may or may not have a very stable home life. They're going through mental health challenges, and they just don't have the resources they need to thrive, so with the help of donors and this fundraising event, the YMCA is able to offer programs to support them 100% free of charge.”
“It’s so rewarding to see youth accessing these programs and knowing that they're coming out feeling better about themselves with more support, positivity, and access to job placements because of some of our programs.”
Register to Cycle for Strong Kids
Register as a team or individual to cycle with us and raise money for these vital community programs. Registration is $50 per rider, and the fundraising goal is $250. Registration is required to secure your spot in the 45-minute stationary bike sessions.
Quit dreaming, start doing. Our sports stores in Kelowna have everything you need to find your new sport. See what’s in store, then get out and enjoy the Fresh Air!
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