In this 150th year since confederation, at a time of much reflection and celebration, a number of initiatives have been made possible that have valuable impact on community. The Community Foundations of Canada see Canada’s 150th as an historic moment with the power to bring people and places together as we dream big about our communities and our country. It is a chance to encourage all Canadians to contribute to their communities in a way that will foster a greater sense of belonging, support meaningful reconciliation and leave a lasting legacy now and for future generations.1

Canada is diverse. 150 Days of Play, an initiative made possible by the Community Fund for Canada’s 150th, a collaboration between Victoria Foundation, the Government of Canada, enabled PISE to deliver physical literacy enriched programming in a way that reflects this diversity. We offered fun, inclusive programs that help give children a sense of belonging and an opportunity to develop lifelong skills for health and wellness.  By partnering with Island Metis Family, Community Services Society, Island Health, the Queen Alexandra Centre for Children’s Health, Rock Heights Middle School, and the Gustavson Capital Corporation, PISE was able to reach many children through four programs, with a special focus on working with indigenous children and youth, children and youth with a disability, and those from lower income or at risk families.

Our Active Development program was delivered to children who received an early diagnosis of a developmental disability, whether cognitive or physical. They were given the opportunity to participate in weekly programming adapted to develop functional movement and physical literacy skills that served as a basis for foundational skills outside of the program and in daily life. #MorningMoves engaged youth aged 11-15 in weekly morning sessions of physical literacy based fitness programs prior to the school day. This program was developed in response to studies that showed physical activity and proper nutrition prior to a school day improves overall mood, behavior and academic performance. During PLAY Together, children in care ages 6+ and parents played and learned fun games that develop fundamental movement skills, confidence and connection.  Power Physical Literacy worked with children ages 3 – 7 learn to improve their driving skills of their power mobility chairs each week through games and play.

PISE is grateful for having the opportunity to deliver 150 Days of Play. We are so happy to have worked with wonderful organizations to make the programs possible and impact the lives of community members who deserve the same access to programs and services as other members of the community. We are honoured to be serving on the traditional lands of the Coast Salish peoples. We look forward—to continue to work together to transform lives through healthy physical activity and sport.

1communityfoundations.ca/cfc150