Are your kids spending their summer indoors playing video games? Are they driving you crazy around the house? Need to help them get out and active? There are plenty of opportunities in the Westshore!
Juan de Fuca Drop-Ins
At Juan de Fuca, there is drop-in youth basketball on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. This is a fantastic opportunity to release some energy and get some summer exercise.
Juan de Fuca also offers a youth swim every Friday. For those aged 11 to 18, the cost is only $2. The lifeguards are friendly and responsible, allowing swimmers to enjoy themselves worry-free.
City Centre Park
At City Centre Park, those aged 15 and under can obtain a coupon for two free bowling games daily, Monday through Friday. There is also drop-in roller skating every Thursday and drop-in ice skating every Sunday. For those who prefer, mini golf is available as an alternative to skating.
Live Music
For live music enthusiasts, the City of Colwood hosts a delightful Music in the Park performance every Friday and Saturday evening. From 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy local talent while dancing and singing along, potentially discovering their new song of the summer.
Eats and Beats
At this event, some of the top Island artists will perform, accompanied by a diverse array of international foods to enjoy while dancing. From 1 p.m. until 8 p.m., attendees can dance, eat, sing, and participate in various activities featured at this community beach party, including a Bungee Run inflatable and bucket pong. To top it all off, attendees can also earn a genuine Eats and Beats t-shirt as a keepsake.
Volunteer
There are plenty of volunteer opportunities for kids in local charities, community programs or your place of worship. Not only does it keep them busy and look good on their resumes, but volunteering also helps to spark their civic responsibility and to discover a cause they may become passionate about. Here are some ideas to consider:
Community Services: Organizations like the United Way and the Victoria Foundation often seek volunteers for local community initiatives focused on supporting families and individuals in need.
Environmental Conservation: Groups such as the Capital Regional District (CRD) or local parks organizations frequently look for volunteers to help with park clean-ups, tree planting, and habitat restoration projects.
Animal Shelters: The Victoria Humane Society and the SPCA often have volunteer opportunities for those who want to work with animals, including assisting with care, adoption events, and fundraising.
Health Care: Hospitals like Victoria General Hospital and Royal Jubilee Hospital may have volunteer programs where you can assist patients, help in information offices, or support various hospital departments.
Nonprofits and Charities: Many local nonprofits, such as Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and food banks like the Mustard Seed and Loaves and Fishes, are always looking for volunteers for various roles.
Arts and Culture: The Greater Victoria Art Gallery and local theaters often seek volunteers for events, gallery assistance, and outreach programs.
Youth Programs: Organizations that support youth, such as the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Victoria, often look for mentors and people to help.
Even if you missed booking them into summer camps, there’s plenty for you and your family to do in Westshore during summer’s half.
