Cochrane’s own Hannah Bujold has kickstarted a team for the Lift 4 Kids event to ensure Cochranites with autism and intellectual disabilities can enjoy programs for physical activity. 

The event is hosted at Goodlife Fitness in Cochrane and has a goal of raising $2,000. The money would go on to help 20 kids receive nine free classes with money raised in Cochrane staying local.

“This gives them a chance to have a fitness program that's suited to their needs because a lot of kids with autism and intellectual disabilities don't have programs that are suited for them,” explains Bujold.

“I got asked if I wanted to be the team captain, and I said for sure because I do have a brother with autism so this hits home with me. I just thought it would be a great idea to offer these kids, like my brother, this opportunity because I thought it would be a great opportunity if he had that when he was little.”

Typically, physical activity programming does not cater to those with autism and intellectual disabilities. Environments can often be inaccessible, have high stimulants and adapted programs come with a hefty price tag.

“This is great because they're all online classes. So these kids, if they're really feeling anxious about going out, they can just do it at home and it's just like a class that you do with other kids.”

“There's a teacher on there and they show you what to do and you don't have to leave your house and you can stay where you're comfortable.”

The Lift For Kids Challenge is on Saturday, November 26, 2022, and is open to Goodlife members. Non-members can donate to Hannah and her team here.