Blue and You Sports Camp Wraps Up Seven Weeks of Summer Activities for Local Youth
The District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board (DNSSAB), the Nipissing District Housing Corporation (NDHC), and the North Bay Police Service have wrapped up the seven-week Kids in Sports initiative, providing local youth with free opportunities to participate in sports, build skills, and connect with their community.
“We had a fantastic group of kids, and their excitement is contagious. They were engaged and eager to take part and try new things,” said Constable Kyle Hughes, NBPS Community Response Unit. “Our members really looked forward to each week as well. It’s a great reminder of the positive impact we can have when we create opportunities for our youth.”
Today marked the final session of the summer program, which ran weekly from July 14 to August 25. The initiative provided children ages 10 to 12 with the opportunity to try a different sport each week, including pickleball, soccer, golf, baseball, football, ultimate frisbee, and basketball.
The half-day program combined sports participation and skill-building with opportunities for positive social interaction. Transportation and snacks were also provided to help make participation more accessible.
“Our youth have valuable perspectives and an important role to play in building safer communities,” said Daryl Longworth, Chief of the North Bay Police Service. “Taking the time to connect with young people, listen to their ideas, and build trust creates relationships that last well beyond this program. We are grateful to partner with the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board and the Nipissing District Housing Corporation to provide this free summer sports program and create positive opportunities for local youth.”
The North Bay Police Service Community Response Unit facilitated the program with support from volunteer Auxiliary members and Youth in Policing Initiative (YIPI) students. Program costs were kept low thanks to the generous support of local partners and businesses.
Throughout the summer, 241 Pizza generously donated a pizza lunch each week. The City of North Bay donated the rental of its sports facilities, while Canadore College provided space in the Dome for activities on rainy days. Gateway Golf donated access to its indoor golf bays, and Pinewood Park Golf Course generously provided space for outdoor golf activities.
The Kids in Sports initiative provided an opportunity for youth to try new activities while developing confidence, building relationships, and creating positive connections with members of their community.
“Programs like Kids in Sports help remove barriers and give children the opportunity to learn, grow, and build confidence,” said Mark King, Chair of the DNSSAB Board. “By making sports opportunities more accessible, we can help young people develop new skills, explore their interests, and build meaningful connections in their community.”
“This program demonstrates the positive impact that strong community partnerships can have on local youth,” said Chris Mayne, Chair of the NDHC Board. “We are proud to be part of this partnership and the opportunities it creates for children to stay active, try new activities, and enjoy a positive summer experience.”
The North Bay Police Service thanks DNSSAB, NDHC, the program participants and their families, community partners, volunteers, and everyone who helped make the first Kids in Sports summer program a success.
