Minister of Culture and Status of Women, Ron Orr, speaking at Camp Chief Hector on Aug. 18, 2022. (Gov't of Alberta YouTube)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

14,000 kids to be served annually

Province revitalizing Camp Chief Hector to tune of $2 million

Aug 18, 2022 | 11:59 AM

A longstanding summer camp in Alberta is receiving $2 million in provincial funding for its revitalization.

Ron Orr, Minister of Culture and Status of Women, and MLA for Lacombe-Ponoka, announced Thursday that Camp Chief Hector is getting $1 million grants both the Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP) and the Cultural Infrastructure Support fund.

With the funding, Camp Chief Hector, which has been around for more than 90 years, will be able to serve 14,000 Albertan youth annually. The camp is located in the Kananaskis area, on Chilver Lake.

It’s revitalization will include:

• improved and expanded camper accommodations
• upgraded electrical infrastructure
• redeveloped camp amenities, including the high ropes course, ranch area, and waterfront

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“Summer camp gives youth the space for fun and healthy physical activities while deepening their connection to the land and fostering a love for our province,” said Minister Orr. “I know that this funding will go a long way in Calgary YMCA’s efforts to continue this Alberta tradition of spending time outdoors in our majestic Rocky Mountains.”

The upgrades are also expected to create hundreds of construction jobs in the Kananaskis area, the government says.

“We’re helping shape the future leaders of our community through our emphasis on inclusive community and values-based education, outdoor physical activity, youth engagement, environmental stewardship, and leadership development.” says Jana Reed, Camp Chief Hector general manager. “All the while fostering community relationships with local Indigenous groups.”

More about the camp is at ymcacalgary.org.