The vision and mission of the Canadian Tire Jumpstart program is simple: give all kids aged 4-18 a chance to fulfill their dreams by participating in sport and physical activity. So while a rainy and windy day might have hampered the Weyburn kick off last year, storeowner Rob Williams was more than pleased to bring on the heat and see a big “jump” in this year’s kickoff.
With great weather and the parking lot filled with fun family activities including a bouncy castle, face painting, live music, a Young’s Equipment demonstration and emergency vehicles on-hand by the Fire Department as well as a visit by the City of Weyburn Police, a bake sale, silent auction, raffle and a barbeque, Williams felt 2018 Jumpstart got off to a great start last Saturday afternoon. “I wasn’t here last year, but I heard it was quite a storm. For this year’s event, I was so impressed by those who stepped up to volunteer things we had out today as well as their time.”
While Williams has only been in Weyburn under 3 months, he and his wife Kim already have positive experiences, only reinforcing their decision to take over the Canadian Tire store here. “People have been great. We have a super group of employees here, too. We love the neighbourhood we live in, especially for our kids. They have already made many friends. My wife who is a chiropractor will also be starting to work here in a couple of weeks. We had many choices after we left Ontario, but this was the best decision we could have made.”
As for Jumpstart, Williams added that while last year the local Weyburn store raised about $14,000 overall, the goal is always to top the previous total. He also believes they will hit their target. When you factor in that the need for the average kid to participate in activities might range between $200 and $300, these funds will go a long way. “Jumpstart has grown to be the largest charity of its kind in Canada, and we are very proud of that.”
While participating in his second Jumpstart kick off, Williams also explained how local customers will already start to see changes to the Weyburn store. “We have started to move out older inventory and have already brought in about 300 new products, with more plans on the way. I’m now finished transitioning out of my last location in Ontario, so all my energy is focused on our future here.”
He also invited all “do-it-yourselfers” to check out the “Tools-For-Loan” program. “Essentially we offer the opportunity for our customers to put a deposit on a loaner tool. When it is returned in original condition, they get a full refund. If they decide to keep the tool for future use, the deposit is their purchase price.”
For those who were unable to join in for the kick off, no worries since Jumpstart continues with a month-long fundraising campaign and donations can be made at the store. While all the money raised stays locally to help those in need, the program also reminds us how a kid’s life can be enriched through physical activity, but that doesn’t mean it comes without a cost. “Jumpstart was a great opportunity for meeting even more Weyburn people, and being able to provide a great program to help local underprivileged kids is very rewarding – especially if we can make a difference in their lives. A big shout out to The Family Place for donating toys and Seitz’ Rentals and Supplies for donating the bouncy castles.”
When a family needs help, up to $300 every 6 months or twice within one fiscal year is made available through Jumpstart to help cover registration and equipment. The program includes a long list of more than 70 physical activities in hopes every kid can find something they would like to do for the love of play.
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