Story and Photos By: Peetah Bastien
The Blood Tribe Recreation & Parks Department and Darcie Vielle would like to thank the community members from both on and off-reserve, including the departments throughout the Tribe, for their support in the bike fundraiser. In total, 80 bikes and helmets were purchased for toddlers to teenagers to ensure every child and youth category was included in this bicycle project.
Overall, through the fundraising, a total of $12,045.00 was raised. At the same time, an additional 15 bikes were also donated in this monumental effort to provide a safe and enjoyable riding experience for our Blood Tribe Youth. The bicycles were evenly distributed throughout all four communities by volunteers who gave up time in their day to make sure the bikes made it to their new homes safe and sound.
The recipients were chosen through referrals from the community, and the bikes were distributed as follows:
• 16 - Stand Off
• 16 - Moses Lake
• 16 - Levern
• 16 - Old Agency
• 16 - Rural Even though the fundraiser was a success, the project did have some minor challenges, states Darcie Vielle, due to COVID-19, which made things a little tricky.
“Because of COVID-19, there was a bike shortage Canada-wide, so we had a challenge purchasing the bikes at a discount.”
Vielle also adds, “We are so grateful for the community support. The real champions of this project is everyone who donated! A banner was made with all our generous donors listed. On behalf of the volunteers Carmelita Rabbit, Marvin Chief Calf, Theodore Ramsey, Sandra Vielle and I, we are so thankful for this great opportunity. We had so much fun distributing bikes. It was a great experience, and we will hold that in our hearts. Thank you again!”
In addition, this project was made possible through virtual fundraising meetings while abiding by the Enhanced COVID-19 Safety Measures of the Blood Tribe.
This is an accomplishment within itself and is a testimony to our Blood Tribe Recreation & Parks Department’s dedication and commitment to our membership. Providing safe services to the community during these challenging times maintains a sense of normality as we all work together towards a post-COVID-world.
