Paddlers 'Canoe the Credit' for a worthy cause

More than 100 paddlers took part in the first Canoe the Credit, a Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) Foundation fund-raiser in support of CVC's Youth Corps Program.

The event, held June 1, raised approximately $26,000 for tree planting and other reforestation projects. Last year, students in the Youth Corps Program planted 10,000 trees. By the end of this year, students are expected to match this number.

To kick off its summer season, the Youth Corps held a tree planting ceremony June 1 at Conservation Park.

For students in Grade 9 and older who are interested in volunteering in the Youth Corps, spaces are still available by calling (905) 670-1615.

"The first Canoe the Credit was a tremendous success," said Phil Green, a CVC Foundation director. "Money raised at this event will go toward reforestation projects to enhance water quality in the Credit River, protect wildlife and promote sustainable forests in the watershed."

The full-day event started at 9 a.m. with participants launching at specific times and locations on the Credit River. The non-competitive paddle offered three routes designed for beginners to more experienced paddlers. The event wrapped up with a party at the Mississauga Canoe Club with prizes for the top 10 paddlers who collected the most pledges.