Airdrie army cadets to host fundraiser in February

The 3016 Calgary Highlanders (Airdrie) Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps will be hosting a dinner and silent auction fundraiser on Feb. 11 at Dick’s Pub & Grill.

In the last two years, the group has tripled its numbers and added four new programs, resulting in a need for more operational and capital funds.

“We are hoping to raise at least $5,000 at this event,” said Mark Bentley, president of the Airdrie Army Cadets parents’ committee.

“With this huge increase in our numbers and activities comes an increased need for donations from our community to support our local youth members.”

The group was recently awarded the Army Cadet League Shield as Best Trained Army Cadet Corps in Urban Alberta and Bentley said that has everything to do with the variety of programs that are available.

“We try to offer a diverse array of programs for the kids so they can try a little of everything,” he said.

The Airdrie Cadets currently have 90 youth ages 12 to 18 registered. New programs include the pipe and drum band, the biathlon team, the drill team and marksmanship team. These programs are provided for all interested youth at little to no cost to make the cadet program available to youths from all backgrounds.

“These kids are able to receive free instruction in everything from physical fitness training, leadership, citizenship, orienteering and parading,” said Bentley.

“These programs help teach our local youth to become active, responsible members of our communities while participating in fun, challenging and rewarding activities. They learn self respect, citizenship, physical fitness, volunteering and to respect their elders.”

The cadets volunteer at many events at the Legion, Airdrie Fest, collect donations for the Veteran’s Food Bank, sell poppies for Remembrance Day, the Airdrie Air show and the Airdrie Show and Shine.

Tickets to the dinner and silent auction will cost $20 each, with half of the cost going right to the cadet corps.

“We are also gathering items for our silent auction being held at this event from local businesses and community members,” said Bentley.

“This is a great way to give back to the community.”

All donors will be recognized in three ways. They will be listed on the 2011-2012 donations page of the cadets website, be mentioned the cadet Facebook page with links and be part of a Power Point demonstration shown at the fundraiser night.

“It should be a fun night out and it is a great way to help a group that offers free programming for local youth, keeping them out of trouble,” said Bentley.

“Remember that an investment in our youth is an investment in our future.”

For more information or to donate or buy a ticket to the event, e-mail airdriecadets@gmail.com