What inspired me to start Girls Fest? I think it was a combination of growing up being involved in sports and my profession as a Youth Worker.

I grew up playing soccer and basketball and trying many other activities along the way. I know that being involved in team sports and physical activity helped me develop my self confidence and work ethic. It also established the importance of being physically active for life. I still play soccer (20 years after I started) and I’m now coaching a U-12 soccer team which I love!

Being a Youth Worker and Recreation Major I know how important it is that young girls stay active and include physical activity and sport in their lives. I’ve watched so many young, vibrant, active girls drop-out of physical activity once they reach their Teenage years.

Girls Fest evolved from a desire to encourage girls to fight against the odds; for girls not to become ashamed of their bodies, obsessed with dieting and inactive. I see so much light and potential in the eyes of the young girls that I work with and Girls Fest is an opportunity for those girls to see the “light” in themselves. My hope is that the girls will leave Girls Fest with new experiences, new friends and a feeling that their community believes in them. But, most of all, I hope they leave believing in themselves.

Receiving the Girls@Play MVP grant will help me make Girls Fest a memorable day for all the girls involved. Part of the MVP grant will go into a fund for girls who could not otherwise afford to participate. The grant will also help with recruiting local athletes to participate as guest speakers; instructors to lead the girls through kickboxing and yoga sessions; a healthy catered lunch for the girls to enjoy and much more!

I would like to thank CAAWS and Nike for the Girls@Play MVP grant! It has re-affirmed my commitment to provide positive opportunities for girls in recreation and sport!

Yours in Community Spirit,

Vicki Grabham

Youth Programmer
Saanich Community Services
“Providing Positive Opportunities”

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