If thoughts of the long weekend ahead have you yearning for the outdoors, CoquitlamSPIRIT offers some ways to enjoy nature safely.
COQUITLAM, B.C., May. 14, 2020 – If thoughts of the long weekend ahead have you yearning for the outdoors, CoquitlamSPIRIT offers some ways to enjoy nature safely.
Launched in April, the City’s online toolkit for getting through the COVID-19 pandemic provides a variety of content designed to help residents continue to stay active, healthy and tapped into their community.
From children’s crafts and at-home fitness to ideas for spreading good cheer, www.coquitlam.ca/spirit offers plenty of options that people of all ages can enjoy at home and outdoors while keeping their distance from anyone not from their household.
From the CoquitlamSPIRIT Outdoor File
The Outdoor file is filled with ideas for fun and educational activities in the backyard or out in the community.
Bloom of the Week puts the spotlight on Coquitlam’s floral displays. City gardeners are posting weekly photos and fun facts on the website about eye-catching blooms they spot around the community. Residents are invited to share photos of what’s blooming in their garden or anywhere in the City on social media and tag @CityofCoquitlam and #CoquitlamSPIRIT.
Hug a Tree encourages residents to take a selfie while hugging a tree that is special to them or that they simply like, in their yard, park or anywhere in the City. The whimsical activity is based on the concept that while we can’t hug everyone we’d like to right now, everyone can hug a tree – and Coquitlam has many to choose from. Tree huggers are encouraged to post their selfie on social media, tagging @CityofCoquitlam and #CoquitlamSPIRIT.
Virtual Walks offer residents a chance to tag along with City staff as they hit a local trail with a head-mounted camera and point out highlights along the way. The videos offer a way to check out a trail in advance, or simply enjoy the feel of being outdoors while at home. The two-kilometre Riverview Forest Loop virtual walk is now available, with more to be uploaded periodically.
Making an outdoor light display, creating positive sidewalk messages, hunting for Chafer beetles and learning about pollinators are a few more ideas from the portfolio.
Bringing the Community Together
The underlying goals of CoquitlamSPIRIT include supporting community well-being during the pandemic, and building lasting civic spirit and pride from the new bonds created during this time of crisis.
New content is continually added, with activities and content centering around the program’s themes of caring, connection and community to support residents through these difficult times. Find out more at www.coquitlam.ca/spirit .
Join Coquitlam’s Efforts to #SupportLocal
The City of Coquitlam has joined the Tri-Cities #SupportLocal campaign to assist local businesses, many of which are struggling at this time. Coquitlam also strongly encourages residents to #SupportLocal for their shopping and meals; view business listings at www.wegotthistricities.com and www.visitcoquitlam.ca for a directory of 150+ Coquitlam restaurants offering takeout and delivery.
Supporting Our Community During the Pandemic
The City of Coquitlam is here to help, with these resources:
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/csrp to learn about the City’s Community Support and Recovery Plan, which is providing immediate and long-term support for the non-profit sector, businesses and residents;
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/spirit for a free library of activities for all ages, including fitness, arts and culture, outdoor activities and ways to connect with your community; and
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/covid19 for updates on City services and initiatives and COVID-19 health resources.
Coquitlam residents and businesses are also encouraged to follow the City of Coquitlam on social media (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) and download the CoquitlamConnect mobile app for up-to-date City information.