The Township of Esquimalt is looking for community support in efforts to win a $100,000 grant through ParticipACTION's 2025 Community Challenge in search of Canada's most active community.
Through June, Canadian municipalities can participate in the physical activity and sports initiative that encourages Canadians to get active in search of Canada’s most active community, with the winning community being awarded the grant.
“Esquimalt’s recreation services punch above their weight for a community of this size. Our pool and fitness centre hours are 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., seven days a week, in addition to specialized offerings including court rentals for indoor pickleball,” said parks and recreation director Steve Knoke in a news release. “Winning the additional funds would make a positive impact by supporting buying new fitness and sports equipment for Esquimalt Parks and Recreation.”
By participating in any Esquimalt parks and recreation physical activity in June, community members’ active minutes will be counted towards Esquimalt’s total.
The activities counted include drop-in weight room sessions, drop-in fitness classes, drop-in sports, drop-in swimming, drop-in or registered pickleball, registered fitness classes, registered kids’ and youth sports, and registered kids’ dance programs.
To help amplify the contest, the township has organized "special activities" this month that include fun, low-barrier activities that welcome everyone. On June 14 there will be free, drop-in volleyball with Urban Rec at the Esquimalt Neighbourhood Party. Residents can register for the June 19 Feel Good Dance Party at the Gorge Pavilion, and on June 20 at 5:30 p.m. residents can participate in the Memorial Park Esquimalt Pride Ride. Residents can also register for the seniors walk and garden tour on June 26.
Individuals can also pledge to get active and help boost Esquimalt’s final score by adding their Esquimalt postal code on www.participaction.com.
The contest deadline is June 30.
