Premier Greg Selinger and Winnipeg Jets chairman Mark Chipman at MTS Centre to announce the new After SchoolMatters program on Friday, September 16, 2011. (DARRIN BAUMING / CHRISD.CA)
Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger and the the Winnipeg Jets announced a partnership Friday, meant to support at-risk high school students through a mentor leadership program.
Standing alongside Jets chairman Mark Chipman, Selinger said the After School Matters program will keep kids busy with after school activities to stay safe and out of trouble.
The program will provide apprenticeship and mentorship opportunities and is modeled after a similar program in Chicago.
It was also revealed the Manitoba Moose Yearling Foundation will now be called the Winnipeg Jets True North Foundation.
“Our mandate shall remain the same, however, we’re confident we can increase by a significant measure the scope and the impact professional hockey can have on our community,” Chipman said.
Students will be given instruction in sports, science, technology, performing arts and communications by businesses, community organizations and skilled professionals.
The Winnipeg Jets and True North Sports and Entertainment will be the program’s first community partner when it launches in 2012.
Children present for the announcement were from the Winnipeg Aboriginal Sports Achievement Centre.
— With files from Darrin Bauming
