Media Releases 2006
CHILL SNOWBOARDING PROGRAM FOR AT-RISK YOUTH LAUNCHES IN PRINCE GEORGE
Program aims to self-esteem through sport
Prince George, B.C. (January 12, 2006) – 2010 Legacies Now today announced a continuing partnership with Bell Canada to launch Chill – a unique snowboarding program for at-risk youth in Prince George. By providing a comprehensive introduction to the world of snowboarding, Chill provides youth with the opportunity for personal development and increased self esteem through sport. Bell Canada, as the premier sponsor, revealed plans to contribute $25,000 to support the initiative.
Aimed at youth aged 12-24, Chill provides participants with everything needed for a mountain experience including equipment, transportation, clothing, lift tickets and instruction. Each week, youth will be introduced to a theme that integrates the snowboarding experience with the challenges of every day life. The weekly Chill themes are: patience, persistence, respect, courage, responsibility and pride. The program will commence in Prince George on January 18, 2006, with a portion of the programs’ 75 participants making their first trip of the six-week program to Tabor Mountain that evening.
“After piloting Chill very successfully in Vancouver in 2005, we are thrilled to be able to partner with Bell Canada once again to bring this unique opportunity to the youth of Prince George,” said Marion Lay, President and CEO, 2010 Legacies Now. “Thanks to the support of the Provincial Government, 2010 Legacies Now can introduce initiatives such as Chill that support the development of strong and vibrant communities across the province. The Chill program has been changing lives for at-risk youth in numerous North American cities since its inception in 1995 and we anticipate that the program will really have a positive impact here in Prince George.”
“At Bell, we’re pleased to partner with 2010 Legacies Now to bring Chill to Prince George,” said Justin Webb, Vice President of Olympic Services, Bell Canada. “The program fits perfectly with Bell’s commitment to connect communities by supporting initiatives that enrich the lives of youth across the country. Chill is a unique opportunity for at-risk youth to meet new people and experience new things, while simultaneously learning important life skills.”
"The lessons of courage, confidence and self-esteem that the Chill participants learn can help forge a strong, positive future for these youths," said Prince George-Mount Robson MLA Shirley Bond. "I'm happy to see such an innovative program being launched here in Prince George."
"One of the most important jobs a government can do is support the growth and development of our children through excellent programs like Chill," said Prince George North MLA Pat Bell. "Participating in Chill could make all the difference in the world in the life of a disadvantaged child in our community."
“The launch of the Chill program is another example of how the benefits and spirit of the 2010 Games are reaching every corner of the province,” said Prince George-Omineca MLA John Rustad. “At-risk youth need to have positive experiences and success to build upon. The Olympic themes of personal accomplishment, physical activity and team spirit reflect well with these goals for our at-risk youth.”
Several Prince George agencies are participating in the Chill program including the Ministry of Children and Family services, Future Cents, Eagle’s Nest, TAPS, Native Friendship Centre and North Central Family Resources.
2010 Legacies Now would like to thank the following organizations for supporting the Prince George Chill program: Burton for providing the snowboarding equipment; Tabor Mountain for supplying lift passes and access to the mountain’s facilities; Schenker for facilitating shipping and customs clearance; Diversified Transportation for providing program transportation and the City of Prince George and the Prince George YMCA for program support.
About 2010 Legacies Now
2010 Legacies Now is a not-for-profit society that works in partnership with community organizations, non- government organizations (NGOs), the private sector and all levels of government to develop sustainable legacies in sport & recreation, arts, literacy, and volunteerism. 2010 Legacies Now actively assists communities discover and create unique and inclusive social and economic opportunities leading up to, during and beyond the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. For more information visit www.2010LegaciesNow.com.
About Bell Canada
Bell Canada, Canada’s national leader in communications, provides connectivity to residential and business customers through wired and wireless voice and data communications, local and long distance phone services, high speed and wireless Internet access, IP-broadband services, e-business solutions and satellite television services. Bell Canada is wholly-owned by BCE Inc. For more information, please visit www.bell.ca.
About Tabor Mountain
Tabor Mountain is the newest member of the Chill program which now encompasses 14 mountain resorts around North America. Located 15 minutes drive from downtown Prince George, Tabor Mountain offers a great mountain experience for visitors of all ages and skill levels.
City of Prince George
The City of Prince George, "BC's Northern Capital", is strategically located at the confluence of the Fraser and Nechako Rivers and is the gateway to the Heartland of British Columbia. Its unsurpassed beauty and plentiful recreational opportunities make it the place to be in both summer and winter season.
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Media Contacts:
Ian Buckley
Manager, Communications
2010 Legacies Now
604-659-1394
Linda Low
Bell Canada
604.678.7509
Geoff Paynton
City of Prince George
250-561-7649
Fern Thibault
Tabor Mountain Ski Resort
250.963.7542

