Robin Bourke, Settlement Worker at the Portage Learning and Literacy Centre, says they are thrilled to launch new community yoga classes at Island Park thanks to a recent grant.
"We did receive a grant, and Lynn Bereza is instructing yoga, and we invited the whole community," says Bourke.
The first session attracted 22 participants, and the program will continue through June with sessions every Wednesday and Friday at 2 p.m. at Island Park.
"We had a good workout yesterday," adds Bourke. "We're going to be there eight times Wednesdays and Fridays at 2 p.m. The whole community is invited."
Open Invitation For Evacuees And Newcomers
Bourke says they are also extending the invitation to evacuees from northern communities.
"We're going to offer that the people, the evacuees from up North, join us if they have time," says Bourke. "We tried to reach out to as many people as we could to invite them and bring them out."
The classes are held on the grass near the Ukrainian Shelter at Island Park and are tailored for beginners. Bourke emphasizes the welcoming atmosphere.
"Lynn Bereza is a very good instructor, and it’s for beginner yoga, so it’s nothing extreme," notes Bourke.
Participants have expressed positive feedback, with many planning to attend all eight sessions.
ParticipACTION Program Aims To Boost Community Fitness
Miriam Ghitale, Settlement Manager at the Portage Learning and Literacy Centre, explains how the initiative ties into the broader ParticipACTION Community Challenge.
"Every year in June, it's a grant that you can apply for, but whether you have the grant or not, you can register," says Ghitale. "Even as an individual you can track your biking or swimming or whatever and add it to the web page."
She adds that community participation contributes to national rankings, and if Portage la Prairie becomes one of the most active municipalities, there is an opportunity to secure additional funding.
"If our community is the most active, the Municipality of Portage la Prairie would actually get some money," says Ghitale. "But this is, we're competing against Canada, so it's a hard competition, but something we can strive towards."
Encouraging Fitness And Connection
Bourke says beyond the competition, the goal is to promote healthy activity and community interaction.
"Just come out and enjoy the afternoon," adds Bourke. "We offer refreshments after and maybe get to meet new people."
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