In an expansion of its long-term partnership with Hope and Health, Helijet is honoured to contribute to the “Snuneymuxw Strong” Mini-Pitch recently installed within the community.
Mini-Pitch Rendering
With a longstanding history of supporting Hope and Health’s sport for social impact efforts, and with its Nanaimo terminal located on the unceded ancestral territory of the Snuneymuxw Nation, Helijet is very excited and honoured to have this opportunity to contribute to the “Be the Change” Mini-Pitch initiative as the fourth core contributing partner alongside the Vancouver Whitecaps, Kw’umut Lelum and Scotiabank.
The Snuneymuxw are a vibrant First Nation of the Coast Salish People, residing in the centre of Coast Salish territory on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, with villages on the Fraser River and waterways in the Gulf Islands. Snuneymuxw territory encompasses one of the most productive and resource rich areas at the heart of the Salish Sea.
Since time immemorial, the Snuneymuxw People have resided in Snuneymuxw Territory as the first peoples, sustaining their lands, resources, culture and spiritual way of life.
“This Mini-Pitch will be an inspiring space to engage youth in the beautiful game,” said Mike Wyse, Snuneymuxw Chief. “This will accelerate their development with the quality coaching and programming wrapped around the pitch. This supports our community wellness vision for our youth.”
By 2026, the “Be the Change” Mini-Pitch Initiative will see 13 mini pitches across communities providing innovative, high quality and inspiring play environments to continue to engage Indigenous youth (and all ages) in the beautiful game and to develop soccer technical skills, along with activating a “5V5 Champions” League across nations. The pitches are being built in partnership with Musco Mini-Pitch System™ modular sports solution, with the site prep supported by Binnie and Knox Contracting.
“Partnering with Hope and Health to support the “Snuneymuxw Strong” Mini-Pitch, and other initiatives, is one way for Helijet to literally “Be the Change” while working within the communities we serve on a grass-roots level,” says Helijet’s Director of Marketing, Jay Minter. “We look forward to continuing our work and learning alongside the Hope and Health team.”
“Helijet has been an incredible partner providing the most time efficient and scenic transport of our people, kit and equipment back and forth over the Salish Sea and by contributing to and amplifying Hope and Health’s sport for social impact efforts,” stated Hope and Health CEO Deana Gill, “The Mini-Pitch contribution is an excellent example of the many ways Helijet acts on their commitment to making a difference on the ground – pun intended! We are extremely grateful for their support to help us make the Snuneymuxw Mini-Pitch happen.”
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