Playing it Safe

Whenever someone is given a position of trust in the work place it is very common for a background check to be done as they will be dealing the things of value. To me there is nothing as valuable as my children and if we are going to trust our children to someone then we should certainly expect no less.
As Fall approaches, the season of many sports and activities also begin – Soccer, Ice Skating, Swimming...... Once you have chosen a program appropriate for your child find out if the staff, coaches, and volunteers are properly trained or supported by an organization. But most importantly make sure that they are required to have background checks done. Both criminal and sexual offence checks.
Although background checks cannot guarantee to prevent sexual abuse; it is a good first step. The most important tool is communication with your child and informing them of situations such as being alone with the coach and the difference of appropriate and inappropriate touching. Make sure as parents that you have done your part to create a healthy and safe environment for your child and every child in your youth sports organization. Here’s to a safe and fun season ahead!

Celebrating Hope

We are always excited to be involved in events that make a difference in people’s lives and this month we will be a part of the Canary Derby and the 25th Anniversary of Camp Goodtimes. The Canary Derby is a fundraising event sponsored by the Canary Foundation, which is a non-profit organization dedicated to the goal of identifying cancer early through a simple blood test and then isolating it with imaging. The event, on September 25, will be held at Deer Lake Park in Burnaby. This is a great opportunity for people to show their support and bring awareness to such an important cause. In addition, the Canadian Cancer Society is celebrating the 25th Annivesary of Camp Goodtimes, a summer recreation program that provides a “unique summer experience” for children and teens with cancer and their families. We are looking forward to both events and meeting the participants who have changed lives and continue to bring hope.