This spring it will be distributed to other Ontario cities. In various community facilities throughout Ottawa-Carleton, STAR operates 6 days of the week from September to May. Thirty-six volunteers, many of them summer camp counsellors, teach hockey, swimming, karate, guitar, computers, jazz, arts and crafts and cooking. In February and March, children and their teachers travel to the Christie Lake Camp site to learn winter camping and cross country skiing. There is no charge for the STAR program.
Equipment is provided and extra clothes are given out as needed.
All of the extra clothing and some of the equipment is donated by individual supporters. The remaining equipment is purchased for excellent discounts offered by area businesses. As well, we appreciate the generosity of community groups who donate rooms, gymnasiums and swimming pools. Approximately 260 children between the ages of 6 and 14 participate in the STAR program this year and many of them are involved in more than one activity. Achievement and participation awards are given.