Blue Mountain Half Marathon generously dontates to Environment Network

The Blue Mountain Half Marathon is a not-for-profit race that is taking place on Sunday October 16th. Half of race profits go to natural health research, the other half back into the local community to promote active lifestyles for children. The Environment Network will receive a $2000 donation towards a new program called The Crew. http://bluemountainmarathon.com/


SPECIAL THANK YOU TO Ruth Hitchcock for organizing the race and donating to the Environment Network for a new program "the Crew." "The Crew", a new after school pilot program is aimed at helping at-risk male youth (grades 7 and 8) in our local community by providing them the chance to find a sense of belonging and connect with other youth once a week. The objective of "The Crew" will be to work with these young men and help them realize their self worth and potential. The Crew participants will be given the tools needed to help improve their nutrition, physical fitness and confidence so they are able to successfully go forward into high school and beyond. Currently, there is no such program available to male youth in this area but it has been requested by area elementary school principles after the success of a similar program for girls (Girlfriends). The eight week pilot program will run after school for an hour and a half and will use resources available at local schools or municipal facilities such as parks and trails.


Today's youth are experiencing increasing amounts of pressure from all aspects of their life; family, school, friends and media. Male youth experience similar pressures and issues as girls but react with uniquely different behaviours. "The Crew" after school program will focus on issues and pressures placed on male youth. Programming will cover a variety of topic areas including healthy living, sex, alcohol and substance abuse, vandalism, violent behaviour as well as self respect/esteem, respect for others and concern for their community and environment. The program will promote healthy physical activity and provide a chance for youth who otherwise, do to lack of access or funds, aren't able to participate in extra-curricular activities.

Additionally, programming will focus on community involvement and environmental awareness. In Collingwood and surrounding areas, there is a need for a program of this nature. The success of the Girlfriends program has made us aware of the need for a similar male-focused after school program.

Funding for this pilot project is essential to the overall success and expansion of "The Crew" after school program. Seed funding will provide The Environment Network with the means to hire a part time coordinator responsible for planning and overseeing the program. Funding would also assist with other costs associated with "The Crew" such as honorarium/mileage for guest speakers, nutritious snacks, after program transportation and free access for all participants.


For more information please contact Andrew Grottoli at the Environment Network, 705-446-0551