Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is inviting Langley to a free, all ages community event on May 9.
Community Day @ KPU, which is being held at KPU Langley this year, will feature games, a Métis jigging performance by dancer Fergus Dalton, a live DJ, campus tours, networking opportunities and more. There will also be various giveaways, including a Samsung Galaxy tablet and a $500 tuition waiver. The event is also a chance for attendees to learn about opportunities to get involved in KPU initiatives in the community.
Two local organizations will also be awarded for their community impact at the event. Cougar Creek Streamkeepers and Sher Pride will be presented with KPU’s Community Impact Award, an annual award that recognizes individuals and organizations who are strong partners of KPU and are making a difference in regional communities of relevance.
Cougar Creek Streamkeepers is a volunteer-led organization dedicated to restoring and maintaining Cougar Creek, an ecologically significant watershed whose headwaters are located near KPU’s Surrey campus. By leading initiatives including field trips, guest lectures and public events, Cougar Creek Streamkeepers has created meaningful opportunities for KPU students, faculty and staff to engage directly with local ecosystems.
“We started Cougar Creek Streamkeepers over 45 years ago, and over the years, our dedicated volunteers have truly made a significant difference to the natural environment in Delta,” says Co-Founder Pete Willows. “We are currently focusing on stormwater treatment education and are working with Metro Vancouver on a new park development to improve the lower reaches of Cougar Creek and reduce flooding.”
Also receiving the award is Sher Pride, a registered charity for queer South Asians in Metro Vancouver. Since 2018, Sher Pride has collaborated with KPU on a number of joint initiatives that have elevated diverse voices and experiences, and contributed to a more inclusive and compassionate campus environment. This includes the KDocsFF Emerging Filmmaker Residency Award, the installation of Jag Nagra’s queer South Asian mural at KPU Surrey, film screenings, workshops and more.
“Since 2008, Sher Pride has believed in the power of collaboration, and we are proud to work alongside KPU as a close and valued partner,” says Amar Sangha, founder of Sher Pride. “This award is a meaningful recognition of the impact we are making together in our community through partnership, representation and shared purpose.”
Community Day @ KPU is being held on Saturday, May 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at KPU Langley, 20901 Langley Bypass, Langley, B.C. Guests are asked to pre-register.
Guests can also experience KPU Science Rendezvous, which will be happening at the same time at KPU Langley. Celebrating science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM), this family-friendly science and art festival will feature hands-on experiments, interactive labs, arts and design, music and more. Registration is required.
