Canterbury’s Community Crusade

Each year the team works in conjunction with MORE FM on the Big Give campaign, in January, March and June.

The first Big Give project took place during pre-season camp when the boys visited four corners of the community – Timaru, Westport, Akaroa and Nelson – to help local organisations by providing the brawn and some hard labour.

In Akaroa, the Crusaders painted the Okains Bay Museum to prepare for local Waitangi Day celebrations. In Timaru, they helped the local school with grounds maintenance. In Westport, they painted and repaired a merry-go-round and in Nelson, they cleared tracks at the Brook Sanctuary.

“We really enjoy getting out and meeting the community,” says head coach Todd Blackadder. “They give us so much support throughout the year, so it’s great to be able to give a little something back.”

Reading Crusade

Once again, Christchurch City Libraries teamed up with the Crusaders’ Reading Crusade, an initiative to encourage the development of reading habits among children.

“Traditionally, it’s a special challenge trying to convince boys to read,” says Unit Manager Libraries and Information Carolyn Robertson. “Having heroes and role models like the Crusaders on board is an extra incentive for young men to connect with the programme, take its message to heart and start reading.”

Charities

The Crusaders have five chosen charities – Christchurch City Mission, Child Cancer Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis, St Johns and the Burwood Spinal Unit – to support by helping raise their profile and assist with fundraising throughout the year.

Club and school visits

The Crusaders often visit clubs in the region to conduct skills sessions and encourage them to be active.

Sponsors

The team also makes sure to spend time with our sponsors. Placemakers Riccarton recently hosted a trade breakfast, where Crusaders were able to cook breakfast and mingle with customers. We hope they also got some building tips to help with their many community activities!