A new Okotoks non-profit is looking to reconnect local athletes with their community.

Operating based on the three pillars of sport, health, and the community, Simpora Foundation aims to build a strong foundation for local up-and-coming athletes.

Director of Simpora Foundation and local business owner Roanne Bodnarchuk says it’s not uncommon for local teams or athletes to request donations or sponsorships, or for them to hold fundraisers through things like bottle drives.

The new non-profit intends to provide another option for those kinds of donations in return for community-minded deeds.

It's meant to instill in young athletes a genuine passion for their community while also developing their teamwork and leadership skills outside of their chosen sport.

“We’re happy to provide donations to your group as an individual or a team, but there’s a community give-back aspect to it. We’re trying to create role models that then mold these individuals to learn the benefits of teamwork immersing themselves in volunteering in their local communities,” says Bodnarchuk.

She says the process is pretty straightforward.

“There’ll be an online submission request, a committee will review the request, and as part of that you’ll say ‘I’d like $100 for this, and in return, I’m going to donate my time and rake leaves at the hospice, or shovel snow for seniors.’ Really, we’re trying to immerse those athletes back into the community.”

Bodnarchuk noticed that the volunteer side of local sports never fully returned after the pandemic and hopes the Simpora Foundation will form a bond between the new generation of young athletes and their communities.

They’re hosting an upcoming community event to raise awareness, with donation and sponsorship opportunities.

The inaugural Rubber Duck Derby & Carnival is scheduled for August 19 at Ethel Tucker Park.

Bodnarchuk is excited to bring a rubber duck race to town for the first time in a while.

“There hasn’t been a rubber ducky race since the early 2000's. They always draw a large crowd, it’s fun to watch 2000 ducks float down the river.”

They’ll be giving out cash prizes for the first, second, third, and last place ducks ($2000, $1000, $500, and $250, respectively.)

The event will also feature food trucks and a dunk tank with prominent community figures.

More information on Simpora Foundation and the event can be seen here.