The Cortes Community Health Association (CCHA) just released an appeal to the island community for monetary donations, seeking a total of $5,000 to continue its after-school programming for kids aged 7-17.
Jodi Peters, youth programs manager for CCHA, explained that the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the programs outdoors year-round, which has meant hiring additional staff.
Fortunately, there have also been significant benefits to having an extra adult on hand, as well as taking the groups outdoors, rain or shine. The children have flourished with extra adult attention and the expansive space to vent their pent-up energy after a long day of school, Peters said.
But she also noticed that attendance dropped slightly, and this may be due to some families not having access to weatherproof gear to outfit their kids for year-round outdoor activities. Peters hopes to address this potential hurdle in the future.
Kids in Action on a wetland tour at Linnaea Farm with Miranda Cross.
Photo courtesy of CCHA.
The programs run parallel to the school year, from September to June, and are open to children of those age groups regardless of whether they attend the island school or homeschool. They are broken down into four sections:
- Kids in action for those aged 7-9
- Adventures in Leadership for those aged 10-12
- Teen Szene for those aged 13-17
- Cougar Sports for those aged 7-15
This year CCHA initiatives created some very special opportunities for children and youth by partnering with Cortes Kayaks and MicroGrants for Neighbours.
This page on the CCHA website lists all the ways to donate, and tax receipts can be provided.
Listen to the interview with Jodi Peters below: