The design work of Stonewall students made a splash in Ottawa and caught the attention of politicians in our nation’s capital.
Recreation facilitator Laine Wilson visited Ottawa in November to represent Manitoba as a Canadian Parks and Recreation Association board member. Along with a small group, she travelled to Parliament Hill to convey messages about the importance of parks and recreation to Canadians.
At the same time, she also handed out colourful beaded friendship bracelets meticulously made by Danielle Marceca’s Grade 2/3 class at Ecole RW Bobby Bend students.
“The bracelets went over amazing,” Wilson said. “Everyone was so excited about them.”
She also gave some to her colleagues to hand out since they were in different meetings throughout the day. Wilson’s group visited with members of Parliament James Bezan (Selkirk-Interlake-Eastman), Larry Maguire (Brandon-Souris) and Cathay Wagantall (Yorkton-Melville, Sask.).
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“Others on our board had a variety of folks they met with, and our kiddos made the best impression,” she said.
“MP Adam van Koeverden (Milton, Ont.), who was also a Canada Olympic kayaker, sent his staff back to the reception with a couple of pins for the kiddos.”
Each bracelet was packaged in a small bag with a message to share the story behind the initiative.
“These friendship bracelets were handmade for you by our Grade 23 class in Manitoba! Each bracelet is a symbol of friendship, connection and shared experiences,” states the message.
“Just like how friends work together and support each other, we hope this bracelet reminds you of the importance of kindness, cooperation and unity in making our communities stronger. We hope this bracelet brings a little joy and reminds you of the friendships that can build a better future for everyone.”
And Wilson definitely stood out in the crowd, clad in a white suit adorned with colourful and creative designs. Taylor Sholdice’s Grade 5 class at Ecole Stonewall Centennial School, along with some students from other Grade 5 classes, artfully added the images with fabric markers.
About 65 local students conceptualized their ideas through group work and contributed to the suit design.
“They did such a good job,” Wilson said. “They tackled big ideas from health care and access to spaces, places and people. It was so cool to see what they came up with. It was so amazing.”
Martin Sampson, CEO of the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA), took a photo with MP Carla Qualtrough (Delta, B.C.) showcasing the bracelets and asked Wilson to share the photo with the Stonewall students.
“It would be hard to overstate just how impactful this thoughtful gesture was and I applaud Laine for making it happen — and, of course, the young people and teachers who were involved,” Sampson said.
“I meet with many MPs who, in turn, meet with hundreds of people like me. They are often hard to touch emotionally. Each and every person who received a bracelet made by a young person in Manitoba was visibly touched. Those bracelets proved to be the perfect gift — so thoughtful.”
At the same time, Sampson also commended Wilson for donning her meaningful attire on Parliament Hill.
“Laine’s fabulous suit is not only stylish but also radiates the confidence and professionalism she brings to her role and the passion she has for our sector,” he said.
“She manages to combine style with purpose — an approach that resonates perfectly with her commitment to the recreation and parks sector. Just like her friendship bracelets, it’s a standout and thoughtful look that reflects her vibrant and approachable personality.”
CPRA is a national organization representing the recreation and parks sector across Canada. Membership stems from the 13 provincial and territorial associations, which represent 95 percent of Canadian municipalities. In Manitoba, RecMB is a member of the national association.
“Our mission is to champion the recreation and parks sector and the contribution it makes to creating healthy, vibrant and resilient communities in Canada. We work with communities and partners to promote the benefits of recreation and parks, from supporting physical and mental well-being to building vibrant, sustainable communities,” Sampson said.
“Our initiatives span youth employment, green jobs and programs that enhance Canadians’ quality of life through accessible and inclusive recreation and park experiences. CPRA Association also serves as an advocate, collaborating with government and stakeholders to advance policies and programs that empower communities and support the recreation and parks sector.”
The sector is far-reaching and impacts every community across the country.
“Recreation and parks services — and the professionals who bring them to life — play an essential role in promoting mental and physical health, well-being and a strong sense of community. They provide opportunities for people of all ages to stay active, connect with nature and build lifelong connections,” Sampson said.
“From small local parks to expansive national programs, our sector fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity. Unfortunately, our sector is often misunderstood and under-resourced, which limits its potential to enhance the lives of Canadians fully. Our work at CPRA aims to bridge this gap, honouring the contributions of this sector and advocating for the resources it needs to support the well-being of all Canadians.”
The advocacy day in Ottawa, which Wilson attended, is a pivotal event where CPRA brings together representatives from the recreation and parks sector across Canada to meet with members of Parliament and government officials.
“This day is all about showcasing the critical contributions our sector makes to Canadians’ lives and advocating for policies and funding that strengthen our sector’s capacity,” Sampson said.
“Our goal is to increase awareness among policymakers of the vital role that recreation and parks play in everything from youth employment and mental health support to environmental sustainability and community building. Ultimately, we aim to foster a stronger partnership with government, ensuring recreation and parks can continue to meet Canadians’ evolving needs.”
The recreation and parks sector is foundational to building communities where people want to live, work, and raise their families—such as Stonewall, home to the student artists who brightened the days of many Canadians with their impactful art.
“This sector helps enhance the quality of life for Canadians from all walks of life and is a powerful force for positive social change,” he said.
“Through the CPRA’s efforts, we’re striving to ensure that the contributions of recreation and parks are well-recognized and adequately supported so they can continue to enrich lives for generations to come.”
and mental health support to environmental sustainability and community building. Ultimately, we aim to foster a stronger partnership with government, ensuring recreation and parks can continue to meet Canadians’ evolving needs.”
The recreation and parks sector is foundational to building communities where people want to live, work and raise their families — such as Stonewall, home to the student artists that brightened the day of many Canadians with their impactful art.
“This sector helps enhance the quality of life for Canadians from all walks of life and is a powerful force for positive social change,” he said.
“Through the CPRA’s efforts, we’re striving to ensure that the contributions of recreation and parks are well-recognized and adequately supported so they can continue to enrich lives for generations to come.”
