A local organization is celebrating two decades of making a difference in the lives of youth.
The North Valley Gymnastics Society will hold a 20th anniversary public open house Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. at 2707 45th Ave. (near Canadian Tire).
“We invite the community to come out and help celebrate the growth of gymnastics in the North Okanagan with fun, food, fitness, prizes, and friends,” said Pamela Hargreaves, with the club.
There will be free gymnastics time for families, demonstrations every hour from noon to 3 p.m. by the club’s competitive gymnasts and a barbecue benefitting KidSport and Canadian Tire Jumpstart charities.
There will also be a birthday cake, art activities, a video show and scrapbooks, and memorabilia will be on display.
“Visitors will be able to get more information on gymnastics programs, sign up for summer camps, book a birthday party, meet the coaches, staff, and members of the current and original board of directors,” said Hargreaves.
North Valley Gymnastics incorporated as a society in 1993 and its programs were based out of Beairsto Elementary School.
“The number of gymnasts registered per session was just over 200,” said Hargreaves.
“While at the Beairsto gym, the number of gymnasts would peak at 225 per session, with 100 kids on a wait list.”
Fast forward to 2012, and the club moved into the 45th Avenue facility with 378 gymnasts registered per session.
“In January 2013, the floor space of the facility was doubled to accommodate the demand,” said Hargreaves.
“The gymnastics club exists for the community, and it would not have survived and thrived were it not for the enormous support of the community and the dedication of special individuals. The open house is a celebration of the community’s support and an honouring of all those individuals who worked tirelessly to help realize the club’s vision over the past 20 years.”
For more information, go to www.nvgym.com or call 250-558-5136.
