Lining up to support KidSport

By Lethbridge Herald on July 20, 2022.

Herald photo by Al Beeber Mayor Blaine Hyggen eyes up the green as he prepares to putt during the KidSport Lethbridge and Taber fundraising golf tournament Wednesday at Paradise Canyon Golf Resort.

Al Beeber – LETHBRIDGE HERALD – abeeber@lethbridgeherald.com

After a two-year hiatus because of COVID restrictions, KidSport Lethbridge and Taber staged its annual golf fundraiser on Wednesday at Paradise Canyon Golf Resort.

Ninety-two golfers hit the links in a shotgun start under sunny skies in the afternoon to support KidSport which helps cover the cost of registration fees so children in low-income families can participate in sport.

KidSport will cover up to $250 per calendar year for a child to participate in a sport or sports of choice, said Jenny Hunter-Barr of KidSport Wednesday.

Last year, $17,988 was granted to 117 children in Lethbridge and Taber. KidSport believes when youth have access to sport, they become stronger leaders, improve in school, fuel healthy habits for their lives, ignite inclusively and create safer communities. Its mandate is to ‘ensure that all kids have the chance to play’.”

All proceeds raised for KidSport stay in the local chapter which is one of 39 in the province. KidSport started here and in Alberta 27 years ago, said Hunter-Barr.

“This is one of our major fundraisers that we have. All the proceeds from the golf tournament stays here,” said Hunter-Barr.

The organization pays fees for youth up to the age of 18.

Swimming classes, soccer and T-ball are among the activities that attract younger participants who find the love of sport early.

2020 would have been the organization’s 25th anniversary but because of COVID, that celebration couldn’t be staged.

On its website, KidsSport says the organization “helps local kids experience the lifelong benefits of sport”. Kids learn leadership, hard work, dedication and self-confidence and build the habits and support network necessary to become healthy adults.

“Through sport, kids also gain access to mentorship and guidance from experienced sport leaders, further developing their skills and helping them grow into our future community leaders.”

People interested in supporting the organization can donate at kidsportcanada.ca where there is a secure online form.

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