PRO Kids has been recognized at the provincial level by Parks and Recreation Ontario receiving the Award of Excellence in Access and Equity for a community population size over 100,000. For over 20 years, PRO Kids has served children and youth in Thunder Bay when their families cannot afford the cost to register them in community activities. Over that time, PRO Kids has made over 25,000 placements of children into local programs that include sports, arts and music.

“We are extremely honoured to receive this Award of Excellence,” said Laura Daniele, PRO Kids Coordinator. “We hope that this will attract the attention of other communities in Canada that might benefit from developing a PRO Kids of their own.”

PRO Kids will be continuing its efforts with the launch of the Press Play Campaign—a fundraising initiative to support local families in the time of COVID-19.

“Recreation for kids has never been more important,” said Ally Drombolis, PRO Kids Fundraising and Marketing Assistant. “It provides kids an emotional outlet during these stressful times and it creates a time for healthy, physical activity. Our community has been on pause since March, and now that some programs have started back up, it’s time to Press Play!”

Many arenas, gymnasiums, studios and pools have opened their doors allowing kids to create new experiences, develop skills, and reap the benefits of recreational programming. Not all families, however, can afford these activities leaving many children and youth at risk of missing out on these benefits. PRO Kids wants to ensure that all kids have equal access to recreation at this critical time.

Individuals and local organizations are encouraged to support the Press Play Campaign from Nov. 16 – 27, and help local families in need. Donations can be made at www.prokidsthunderbay.ca or by calling 625-2351. 

For more information visit www.prokidsthunderbay.ca.

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Contact: Ally Drombolis, PRO Kids Fundraising & Marketing Assistant, at 625-2340, adrombolis@thunderbay.ca