No child should be left out, so when parents can't afford extracurricular activities, the A.L.L (Activity, Leisure, Lessons) For Kids Program helps out. Their job just became a bit easier thanks to a $10,000 donation.
The Women's Leadership Council in Chatham-Kent has donated the same amount to the organization for ten straight years. The money has helped fund 480 children's participation in activities like art lessons, music lessons, Girl Guides, house-league sports and camps.
Kelly Emery, director of Child Care and Early Years Division for the Municipality of CK, said she really appreciates the annual donation.
“We would like to thank the Women’s Leadership Council for its ongoing support of the A.L.L. For Kids Program," Emery said. "Many children are able to participate in recreation activities each year due to these generous donations. The Women’s Leadership Council’s commitment to supporting this program speaks to the true spirit of community engagement and, as citizens of Chatham-Kent, we all benefit from that”
The A.L.L. for Kids program screens parents for financial need prior to the children receiving assistance and has financially supported roughly 1,000 kids per year since it started in 2001. For instance, a single mother of one child would need a maximum net household income of less than $27,521, while a family of five can't exceed $51,486.
According to the former CEO of United Way of Chatham-Kent, Karen Kirkwood-Whyte, extra-curricular activities help prepare a child for future life experiences by developing them physically, socially, emotionally and cognitively.
“Studies show that when children have the opportunity to engage in cultural activities, such as music and dance, they are also able to demonstrate better learning in more analytical skills, such as math and science," Kirkwood-Whyte "We, as a group of women, are honoured to support this important community initiative for local children, so that they can build confidence and be all that they can be.”
The Women's Leadership Council defines itself as is a philanthropic network of corporate and community leaders using their collective power to create meaningful change in Chatham-Kent. It was created in September 2007 and was one of the first of its kind in Canada.
According to a release from the municipality, membership provides an opportunity for female donors to collaborate, identify and address local social problems.