- The 1st Stouffville Guides and Pathfinders are organizing a community Hoedown Fundraiser to support their upcoming trip to Alberta.
- Their eight-day adventure will offer Guides and Pathfinders the opportunity to explore Alberta’s cultural and natural heritage while developing greater independence and important life skills.
- The itinerary includes visits to a variety of attractions and museums in Calgary and Edmonton, as well as excursions to locations in and around Lake Louise and Jasper National Park.
- Guides will stay in hostels and Girl Guide accommodations, including the Alberta and Calgary Area Guide Houses.
- The Hoedown Fundraiser will be held at the Claremont Legion from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. on Friday, July 5th.
- Attendees can enjoy line dancing, cornhole, washer toss, a silent auction, and refreshments including pizza and drinks.
- For tickets and further information, visit the event’s website.
The 1st Stouffville Guides consist of girls in Grades 4-6, while Pathfinders include those in Grades 7-9. In addition to visiting numerous culturally significant sites and national parks, the trip organizers hope it will challenge the participants, helping them build resilience and confidence while forging lasting friendships.
“Our trip aims to help the girls grow and appreciate a beautiful part of their country, to develop a sense of belonging to the Sisterhood of Guiding, to challenge themselves to grow in independence and self-confidence, learn new and valuable life-long skills, and, most importantly, have fun,” explained Guider Colette Larsen.
While staying in Alberta Guide Houses, the girls will learn about the history of Girl Guides, connect with local Guide groups, and observe how they operate. Other planned activities include visits to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, the Star Mine Suspension Bridge, and the indoor luge center at Canada Olympic Park.
They will also go on hikes and explore the natural beauty and parks in Drumheller, Lake Louise, and Jasper. “It’s truly a learning experience and a bonding opportunity as well,” said Heather Rogers, one of the chaperoning Guiders, to Bullet Point News. The trip concludes with a day of fun at the West Edmonton Mall.
“My daughter has been in Guides for five years, and she’s gained so much in terms of life skills and connections,” Rogers added. “We’re just trying to give more girls empowerment opportunities so they can say, ‘I’m a strong woman, and I have the ability to do all these fantastic things.’”
