Members of the Elks Lodge #122 present ‘Let’s Play’ reps with a sports wheelchair   photo submitted

Prince George, BC – Organizers of an innovative sports program for kids are hoping area businesses will match a generous donation from the local Elks branch to get the program rolling in local schools…

The ‘Let’s Play’ initiative is a cooperative effort involving the BC Wheelchair Basketball Society, the Rick Hansen Foundation, and BC government that uses sports wheelchairs to create an inclusive sports program for both able-bodied children and children with disabilities.

Earlier this week, the Elks Lodge 122 donated a sports wheelchair to ‘Let’s Play’ Northern Coordinator, Nancy Harris, launching a fundraising effort that aims to raise $30-thousand dollars towards purchasing at least 12 wheelchairs for School District 57.

"When children with disabilities are able to play with their peers, everyone wins," says Harris, who has spent 30-years advocating for people with disabilities in the region. 

She says the ‘Let’s Play’ program includes a three-on-three wheelchair basketball league in SD57, with the first district championship set for April 26th.  "The child with the disability gains all of the social and physical benefits of play, and able-bodied children learn valuable lessons about empathy and acceptance."

Harris says if just two dollars were donated for every child in the school district, the program would reach its minimum goal.  "It’s a small price to pay to build a more inclusive society."

Local businesses can become bronze, silver, gold or platinum sponsors of the program.  For more information, email Harris at pgtitans@hotmail.com.