A new program is helping Yukon communities get a fresh new look with the help of tourists visiting the territory.
A Yukon government initiative called Rugged Apprentices is inviting volunteers to the territory, covering some of their expenses in exchange for help with local community projects. So far, 39 volunteers have joined the program this year.
One of the participants, Kim Matters, a nurse from a children’s hospital in Edmonton, took a break from her regular job to lend a hand. She says helping out is her idea of fun. “I love the Yukon, and coming to small communities and helping out is my idea of fun,” she said. “For me, it’s not about going to a beach; it’s about giving back.”
This is Kim’s second time joining the Rugged Apprentices program. She and five other volunteers travelled to the village of Carmacks to help paint a well-loved walking bridge. A mother of four, Kim applied online by writing a short note about why she wanted to take part and was thrilled to be selected again.
Volunteer Cathy Ormerod, from Niagara Falls, says it feels good to travel in a way that gives back instead of just taking from a place. Fellow volunteer Amanda Zhang, an elementary school teacher from Toronto, joined with her boyfriend, Turner. She says the program fits perfectly with her passion for Indigenous studies, outdoor learning, and hands-on experiences.
Another volunteer, Cadyn Miles, had always wanted to visit the Yukon and applied for the program within 20 minutes of seeing the ad. He says the mystery and beauty of the territory, along with the chance to help the community, drew him to the program.
In Carmacks, Chanel Johnnie, the village’s recreation director, has been overseeing the Rugged Apprentices during their five-day stay. She says the volunteers have been a big help and bring great energy to the town. To show her appreciation, she even used her last pound of bison meat to cook chili for them. Johnnie says that while painting the walking bridge might seem like a small job, it means a lot to the community.
The Rugged Apprentices have also helped out in Burwash Landing, Dawson City, and Teslin during their travels.
Source: George Maratos, CBC
