Hands up for the Tlu-piich Games! It’s time to volunteer for this annual event, which runs from Aug. 10 to Aug. 14.
Nuu-chah-nulth people have a strong tradition of pitching in to help when called. Many volunteer every year at the Games, but there is always room for more people to keep the events for Nuu-chah-nulth youth running smoothly.
This year, the Tlu-piich Games Volunteer Coordinator is Wally Samuel Jr. He’s a long-time supporter of youth care and development. He’s been a foster parent, a recreation worker, and he has five children, the eldest turning 30 this year.
The job he has taken on is a huge one, but his long involvement in sports will serve him well. His network will bring out some volunteers, but he’ll be looking to fill spots for Track and Field, 3 on 3 Basketball, the Language Treasure Hunt, Security, Opening Ceremonies, Closing Ceremonies, Canoe Races, and First Aid. This last one is key to running a safe games, so if you’re sitting on an old First Aid card, you can help.
Volunteering is a no experience job otherwise. Wally is looking for the young, and the young at heart. Youth, especially, are welcome to gain experience and “to bring them along in life,” said Wally. They will learn the structure of the sport and the fundamentals of how events run. Summer students are welcome, non-Native are welcome, those who need volunteer hours to complete a course in school are welcome. They are even offering rides to and from the event for those who don’t have transport.
Plus, for every two hours volunteering, your name goes into the hat for a daily draw. After four hours, volunteers will get a healthy plate to keep you energized.
“Some people stay for 10 or 12 hours because they enjoy it so much.”
And at the end of the Games there are two grand prizes, one for youth volunteers and one for adults.
This is Wally’s first time involved with the games to this extent, and he’s happy to be onboard because the Tlu-piich games provides such a good environment, he said.
So, if you find yourself with some extra time and can help out, please contact Wally. Visit the Tlu-piich Game Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NuuchahnulthTlupiichGames/?fref=ts or phone the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council. Call 250-724-5757 and ask for the Tlu-piich Volunteer Coordinator Wally Samuel Jr.
This is a zero tolerance alcohol and drug free event.
