HomeMy Public PortalAbout2011-05-27_PRO KidsPRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 31, 2011
P.R.O. KIDS
MUNICIPALITY OF CHESTER –Cosette Howlett, P.R.O. Kids Coordinator for the
Municipality of Chester, had a tear in her eye when she read the latest thank you lette r
from a parent whose child benefitted from the program.
The letter reads, “I write this letter to once again thank you for the support that PRO
Kids has given to my family. PRO Kids starts as financial support, but results in the most
incredible contribution a child and family could receive.”
When the daughter of a single mother suddenly withdrew from activities and
schoolwork, she became worried. After struggling for two years,she discovered that her
daughter had a learning disability, which caused her daughter great anxiety. During a
counseling session,the girl expressed her desire to join dance class. Her mother was
overjoyed, but disheartened. With only one income, she couldn’t afford the registration
fees for the one thing that could possibly lessen her daughter’s worries.
Then she found out about the P.R.O. Kids program. She received much needed funding
for registration fees, and now she “can’t imagine our lives without dance and what it has
contributed.”Because of her positive experience with dance, the daughter gained the
confidence and acceptance she needed and is now an “outgoing honour student” and
“excels beyond her learning disability.”And, that’s just one of hundreds of stories that
Cosette has heard over the last few years.
“I truly love this part of my job,” says Cosette. “It feels good knowing that we can help
the children and families in need.”
P.R.O. Kids, which stands for “Positive Recreation Opportunities for Kids”,is a
nationwide program adopted by the Chester Municipal Recreati on & Parks Department
in 2003. It allows youth aged 0-18 years and living within the Municipality of Chester to
participate in an organized sport or activity despite financial barriers their family may
face.Cosette, who works for the Recreation & Parks De partment, became P.R.O. Kids
Coordinator in 2008.
The P.R.O. Kids Program has become very successful since its beginnings.Last year, 153
applications were received from youth within the Municipality of Chester.All funds for
registration and equipment come through generous donations from Municipal Council,
the community, local businesses, sport and recreation associations, and various granting
agencies. One hundred percent of the money received is put back into the program and
supports local community organizations.
“It feels good knowing that the community is so supportive -thus it is personally a
heartwarming experience to be a part of such a positive community program ,” says
Cosette.She has found that over the last few years, instead of approaching
organizations for donations, the tables are beginning to turn –many groups and
businesses are calling the Municipality to offer their donations.
For information about P.R.O. Kids or to make a donation, please contact Cosette
Howlett, Chester Municipal Recreation and Parks, at (902) 275-3490.
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CONTACT INFORMATION:
Jennifer Veinotte, Communications Officer
Municipality of the District of Chester
(902) 275-3554 phone (902) 275-4771 fax
(902) 277-1169 cell phone jveinotte@chester.ca