Our Signature Project
The Bike Program
We provide bikes and helmets to children in need. ‘EVERY KID SHOULD HAVE A BIKE’ – that is the philosophy that drives the Kiwanis Club of Calgary Chinook’s “Bikes and Sporting Goods” Program. With the generosity and contributions of many individuals and organizations we are providing many less fortunate youngsters and their families with bikes, helmets, sporting goods, and winter clothing.
The donated or purchased (from garage sales) bikes and sporting goods are cleaned, repaired and are in good condition. Using parts & supplies provided by Kiwanis, most of the bikes are repaired or cleaned at the Calgary Correctional Centre by inmates learning a new skill in their bike shop. Kiwanis volunteers then add bells, kickstands and bike locks to most of the bikes. The social/case workers from several agencies and concerned citizens identify where there is a need for bikes, they then pick the bikes up at one of our scheduled giveaways and deliver them. New bike helmets are also offered with each bike. The program started in 1997 and over the past 21 years we have provided 7017 bikes and 7785 helmets to less fortunate families. In 2017 586 bikes and 607 new helmets were donated throughout the city (the agencies are listed on the reverse page). This includes bikes and helmets to those referred to us by friends, neighbors, etc. The many cards & thank-you letters we receive from the children, their parents and caseworkers express their joy and appreciation. This program is partially funded by the sales of donated, used ski and snowboard equipment and financial support from many caring individuals, groups and companies. The Kiwanis Club of Calgary Chinook appreciates and acknowledges the valuable support of the community & the following organizations that help make this program successful: Bikes For Humanity, Bow Cycle & Sports, Calgary Correctional Centre, Calgary New & Used Ski Sale, Calgary Police Service, Calgary Ski Club, Canadian Tire (McLeod Trail), CIBC Wood Gundy (CIBC Children’s Foundation), Euro Tech Cycle, Martinizing by Stephen, Nakiska Ski Resort, Seniors Alpine Ski Club, Stirling Enterprises, Syrian Refugee Support Group, Tour de Nuit Society, Two Wheel View Our goal in 2018 is to continue providing ‘Bike’ & ‘Bike Helmet’ days to many less fortunate in our community. During 2017, the Kiwanis Club of Calgary Chinook also distributed over 1300 pieces of sporting goods and winter clothing to children, their families, and individuals less fortunate than ourselves. |
To receive more information about our Bike Program click here
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Community Support
Supporting the Calgary Reads Program
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Supporting the building of the Forest Lawn Playground
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We encourage leadership and service for young people.
Our Bursary Program
Award Winner
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 Award Winners
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The Watch Awards Program
This program provides watches as part of our Youth Recognition Awards to grade 9 students selected as the student of the month at 6 Junior High Schools.
The students are selected for good citizenship and being all round students in their school community.
At the end of the school year all award recipients, their parents and their teachers are invited to attend a banquet honouring them. The program provides incentive for young people to develop positive attributes that will carry with them into their adult lives. These young people act as role models for the other young people in their schools.
Children's Link Parties
Our club hosts Christmas parties for children and parents that are clients of Children's Link.
The children's ages range from birth to 12 years. We cater and serve a dinner at these events that are attended by 80 to 120 people. Children's Link and URSA arrange for Christmas presents, crafts and entertainment while we arrange for Santa to attend with treats for the children.
This program provides watches as part of our Youth Recognition Awards to grade 9 students selected as the student of the month at 6 Junior High Schools.
The students are selected for good citizenship and being all round students in their school community.
At the end of the school year all award recipients, their parents and their teachers are invited to attend a banquet honouring them. The program provides incentive for young people to develop positive attributes that will carry with them into their adult lives. These young people act as role models for the other young people in their schools.
Children's Link Parties
Our club hosts Christmas parties for children and parents that are clients of Children's Link.
The children's ages range from birth to 12 years. We cater and serve a dinner at these events that are attended by 80 to 120 people. Children's Link and URSA arrange for Christmas presents, crafts and entertainment while we arrange for Santa to attend with treats for the children.