TD Friends of the Environment Foundation (FEF) is throwing its support behind an initiative to get kids outside by funding a program through the Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation (GRPF) and the Boys and Girls Club of Cochrane and Area.
The initiative will be part of the Boys and Girls Club summer camp program and will be offered eight times throughout the summer months.
“TD FEF is thrilled to support the Boys and Girls Club of Cochrane and Area and the Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation in their efforts to get kids involved with nature,” said Derrick Cressell-Clough, district vice-president of TD Canada Trust. “Environmental education is a core focus of ours and we’re inspired by the work of these organizations.”
Around 50 children are expected to participate in the full day of outdoor activities at Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park every week this summer, and during each visit will take part in two GRPF-led programs in addition to the Boys and Girls Club outdoor program, which will include hikes, nature crafts and child-directed play.
Susan de Caen, GRPF executive director, said she is excited to get kids engaged with hands on learning at the park. “Youth programming is an important part of what GRPF delivers and this program will help children appreciate the natural world and encourage lifelong stewardship of the land.”
To register for the Boys and Girls Club summer camps, visit bgccochrane.ca.
The local Rotary Club is teaming up with GRPF and Alberta Parks to celebrate Parks Day at Glenbow Park.
Events will include five trail running races as part of the 5 Peaks Trail Running series and an afternoon of free family festivities, including face painting, pony rides, interpretive play from Alberta Parks and other hands-on activities.
Parks Day also includes the Riversong Run at the Ranch, which the Cochrane Eagle is the media sponsor.
“The partnership is a natural fit for our club,” said Cochrane Rotary Club member and past president Tom Wilk. “A provincial park as spectacular as Glenbow Ranch is an amazing asset for Cochrane residents and encourages health and wellness through participation in outdoor activities. Our members are committed to assisting the GRPF in meeting their fundraising goals, one of which is to raise funds for the development of the Calgary to Cochrane Trail.”
Last year, over 1,000 people made their way out to Glenbow Park to participate in Parks Day, and organizers are hoping to exceed that number this time around and raise in excess of $10,000 toward the many endeavours of the GRPF.
Parks Day at Glenbow Park is July 18 and runners can register for one of five races; for more information visit grpf.ca/parksday.
