Local Campaign Launched to Help Kids and Youth Be More Active

VICTORIA, BC, December 9, 2024 – PISE (Pacific Institute for Sport Education) has launched a campaign to raise $500,000 by April 2025 for its ‘Gift of Play’ and ‘Gift of Potential’ programs that will offer children and youth in the Greater Victoria region equal opportunities to move and play, regardless of abilities or circumstances.  

In support of PISE’s initiative, Peninsula Co-op has pledged to match donations up to $100,000. “The team at Peninsula Co-op is proud to support PISE’s vision of transforming lives through healthy activity and sport,” said Lindsay Gaudette, director of Marketing and Community Relations with Peninsula Co-op. “It is up to all of us to build the community’s capacity and give children what they need to develop their full potential. We also want to encourage others to get involved and double the impact this giving season.” 

PISE’s campaign raises funds for its ‘Gift of Play’ programs, which give children the start they need to develop into active, confident youth and adults. Campaign contributions will also directly impact local youth through ‘Gift of Potential’ programs, offering continuing physical activity expert support that builds skills and character and prepares them for the next level of their chosen sport and the next stage of their lives. 

“We advocate that all kids deserve the gift of play. Engaging in sports and physical activity at an early age has a long-lasting impact on children’s lives,” says PISE’s CEO Robert Bettauer. “Physical literacy programs help children grow into healthy adults, benefiting the larger community. We are so grateful to donors and supporters who help our kids and youth have access to the life-long gift of movement and sport.”   

According to national reports, only 39 per cent of children and youth (five to 17 years of age) met the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines of at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity.  

PISE annually reaches over 10,000 children through various programs, offering Play Your Way Grants, Teacher Mentorship opportunities, and Inclusive Child and Youth programs. The organization also provides weekly programs for over 70 children with disabilities.  

To learn about the fundraising campaign and donate to PISE, those interested can visit pise.ca/donate   

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About PISE
PISE (Pacific Institute for Sport Education) is a charitable non-profit organization dedicated to transforming lives through healthy activity and sport. PISE provides education, programs and services for children, youth and adults across South Vancouver Island, focusing on inclusion, physical literacy, active living, and the development of performance sports. More information and ways to support are available at https://pise.ca/   

About Peninsula Co-op 

Peninsula Co-op is a Vancouver Island-based Co-operative with roots dating back 60 years, and proudly serving Duncan to Victoria, Comox and Campbell River. Owned and guided by more than 120,000 member-owners, their core business includes grocery, petroleum, and liquor products. They have 17 gas stations and convenience stores, 10 The Liquor Co. 1977 liquor stores and employ over 450 employees. As a cooperative, they share their profits with their members and the community. Last year nearly $8 million was returned to their member-owners, and half a million dollars is contributed to local community initiatives annually. 

Media Contact: 

Tyler Sinclair I tartanbond on behalf of PISE
tyler.sinclair@tartanbond.com I 437.239.3298