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b'Despite our city\\xb9s apparent affluence, many youth in Lethbridge do not have\\naccess to sport and recreation opportunities. Limited incomes,\\ntransportation issues and other numerous and complex challenges prevent\\nparticipation in even the most basic recreational programs and services that\\nmost families take for granted. Those children denied access may be the ones\\nwho would benefit most from recreating and playing sports with their peers.\\nLeveling the playing field would benefit the entire community.\\n \\nTom Hopkins, Manager of Recreation Parks and Culture for the City of\\nLethbridge will define the challenges faced by children in our community who\\nwish to play but can\\xb9t. Information garnered from various planning\\nprocesses and community surveys provides the background in understanding the\\nissues. Why are we failing to provide the broad needs of our community in\\nsport and recreation? What opportunities may there be for assistance and\\nsupport? \\n\\nSpeaker: Tom Hopkins\\n \\nTom Hopkins started work with the City of Lethbridge as a Lifeguard. He held\\nmanagement positions with Transit and Leisure Facilities prior to becoming\\nManager of Recreation Parks and Culture. He is currently overseeing\\ndevelopment of a Recreation and Culture Master Plan, a Parks and Bicycle and\\nPathways Master Plan and a Sport and Recreation Policy.\\n \\nTom also has worked with several not-for-profit organizations locally and\\nprovincially. He is past president of the Recreation Facility Personnel\\nAssociation of Alberta.'