It has been a slow start for the Bulkley Valley Youth Sport Foundation since it was founded four years ago, but the charity continues to find ways to get children involved in sports.
COVID-19 stunted the growth of the foundation, as most team sports were shut down due to health regulations. However, they are now even reaching families outside of Smithers.
“It has taken time for us to get traction, but this year, we reached some families in Hazelton,” said Philippe Bernier, president of the foundation.
Now the foundation has become a member of the Smithers Chamber of Commerce and is organizing events for Smithers residents to show their support.
“We are raising money to help fund families and kids in need of financial support, so they can pay for their registration and equipment for sports,” Bernier said.
“Every dollar we receive goes directly back to the community,” he said.
Staying physically active and being involved in sports is close to Bernier’s heart. Growing up in Smithers, Bernier would ski and play soccer. Then in 2020, Bernier, along with his friend Jordie Hutchinson, decided to start the youth foundation, so all children could have access to playing sports.
“We saw the need, and both had a desire to do something that gives back to the community. I used to work for the Canadian ski team and still do a lot of volunteer work within the skiing side of things,” Bernier said.
“Being active, instead of in front of a screen, gives your kids [the ability] to work within a teamed environment, camaraderie and so many [other] life skills they can learn from,” he added.
Bernier also aims to create more programs for children with disabilities, so they can participate in sports. The foundation can access special usage equipment for those with disabilities who want to try out a sport and be involved.
From Aug. 8 to 10, the Smithers Celebrity Golf Tournament will be offering an online 50/50 fundraiser to support the foundation.
They have also recently partnered with Bulkley Valley Racquet Sports Society to raise money to build new pickleball, basketball and tennis courts in Telkwa, over the coming months.
“If people are interested in donating more, we have the ability to issue tax receipts. We also do capital projects, so we can partner with a local organization and help them raise money to deliver a capital project,” Bernier said.
“Once [the kids] get outside, it is great.”
