Accessible outdoor recreation has a new lease on life today thanks to a partnership between Power To Be and the Steele family. The Victoria-based non-profit organization and the Steele family have partnered to transform the former Prospect Lake Golf Course into an accessible recreation hub for British Columbian youth and families with barriers.
“We believe in the potential of people and are excited to partner with the Steele family to continue creating more accessible adventures in nature,” says Tim Cormode, Power To Be Executive Director. “Having a home base will allow us to expand our programming and create a stronger understanding in the community that Power To Be is a long-term resource for the individuals and families that need us.”
Effective immediately, the site will be used to consolidate Power To Be’s program gear and as a staging area for programs that bring participants to natural spaces throughout Vancouver Island and the Vancouver area. Future programs are planned for the site to complement Power To Be’s current offerings of kayaking, hiking, canoeing, rock climbing and other activities for youth and families living with a physical, mental, social or financial barrier.
“The education that time in nature affords us is made stronger by the variety of landscapes in which we can explore,” says Jason Cole, Power To Be Director of Programs. “A place to call home will strengthen our ability to offer programs throughout the natural spaces that surround us in B.C.”
The Steele family, who own the site and formerly operated Prospect Lake Golf Course there, is leasing the land to Power To Be in an agreement that aligns with their shared vision for environmental stewardship and access to nature.
“Time in nature creates an opportunity for anyone to revitalize their body, mind, and spirit. We are honoured to partner with an organization that shares our values of preserving natural spaces while creating access for more people to benefit from adventures outside,” says Shawn Steele, Steelecrest General Manager. “The various activities that can be held on our property will inspire, challenge, and hopefully enrich the lives of the participants.”
Power To Be’s general operations will remain based at its Victoria (1017 Fort Street) and North Vancouver (182 Pemberton Avenue) offices.
About Power To Be
Power To Be inspires youth and families in need of support to discover their limitless abilities through nature-based programs. The non-profit offers two program streams: Adaptive Recreation (available in Victoria and Vancouver), a response to the community need for inclusive, nature-based recreation for people living with a disability or barrier, and Wilderness School (available in Victoria), a multi-year program for youth that fosters leadership, positive social development and life skills through outdoor adventure activities. Founded in 1998, Power To Be offered more than 450 programs in 2015, creating opportunities for more than 1,200 participants to get active in nature. Learn more at powertobe.ca.
