About two dozen youths are needed to sign up for an army cadet corps in Sundre to get the group off the ground.
Sundre resident Todd MacDonald has been working to introduce to the community an option that provides young people with unique development opportunities. He is the lieutenant and chief training officer for the Didsbury Army Cadets #3025 and also the senior pastor at the Main Avenue Fellowship.
The federally regulated program is geared towards adolescents and includes activities like camping, physical fitness, map reading, tying knots, first aid training, starting a campfire, target range practice with air rifles, as well as lessons on citizenship and community awareness.
The Sundre Legion Branch #223 has pledged full support, making available the local hall for weekly parades once the corps gets started, said Comrade Chaplain Tim Kirby, adding some funds have even been designated to help get the initiative going.
“We’re cheering these guys on,” Kirby said during an interview at an informational open house held March 21 at the legion.
Sundre resident Jaxon Sommerfeld was among several youths who dropped by to learn more about the program.
“Before, I didn’t want to,” the 11-year-old said when asked whether he was considering signing up.
“But now that I see it, I want to.”
Sommerfeld spent some time with MacDonald, who walked through the numerous types of activities the cadets are involved in.
As of last week, MacDonald said there were a few others who had expressed interest, but that about 25 would be needed to start.
“We’ve got to get people signed up and we’re ready to go,” MacDonald said.
For more information, contact MacDonald at 403-426-0014 or by email at [email protected]. The Didsbury Army Cadets also have a social media page.
