By David F. Dawes

EXTREME Outreach Society started some 14 years ago in Victoria – essentially as a ministry to people with addiction problems. It has grown to include families and especially children in need.

Cliff Power, Extreme’s founder and executive director, believes the key is to prevent addiction and social problems from developing at an early age. These are issues children from all walks of life face in our society today.

“The challenge,” said Power, “is to show kids that the only way through what society throws them is the guidance and love of Christ.”

The ministry focuses on engaging children in fun activities that encourage them to make healthy lifestyle choices at all levels.

“We love to motivate others to reach out to the less fortunate,” said Power, adding: “It’s great to work with churches, youth groups and schools, building bridges of hope.”

The programs offered at Extreme Outreach are varied, but focus on giving children a positive outlet for their creativity and energy.

For example, the SuperKids Saturday program brings children aged 6 –12 years together for an afternoon of games, music and other activities.

“We serve healthy but delicious kid-friendly meals, which are always a highlight,” said Power.

“It’s a safe and fun environment, where they’re encouraged to relate to one another – and they get the chance to learn their favorite Bible stories in fun and unique ways.”

Extreme’s SuperKids Camp is held each year at Camp Bernard in Sooke. “We have generous sponsors, who ensure that all the costs of camp are taken are of.”

The campers, he said “get really excited about five days spent together in the outdoors – enjoying action-packed days filled with games, fun and a host of other outdoor activities. We add scripture teachings, worship and chapel to the program.

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“Many leave with a greater connection to the Lord, as he blesses each child – as well as the staff – in a unique way.” This past year, Power said, “28 children gave their lives to Jesus!”

The ministry also offers an Extreme Adventures program.

“We take the kids on surfing, boating and wilderness field trips. Here they get to experience all the fun of these outdoor sports, under the watchful eye of our group leaders – and forge memories that last a lifetime.”

Another program Power considers essential is the ministry’s outreach to needy children and families in various areas of Victoria. “Our focus here has been a very successful Barbeque Ministry to Blanchard Court for the last eight years. Most Wednesdays, families are treated to a hotdog and beverage. The kids learn how to barbeque, and have fun playing games in the centre court of the housing complex.”

The children, he added, “are also given the chance to understand the importance of serving in their community.”

The centrepiece of every year, said Power, is the Extreme Christmas Dinner. “The ministry feeds over 500 people from our ministries – and is an absolute blast! Guests are treated to a hot turkey meal with all the trimmings, and get to choose their own gifts from a huge selection of donated presents.”

A highlight of the afternoon is the balloon drop. “Hundreds of balloons are released from the ceiling, to the delight of the crowd – with some containing a gift card. Those that catch a balloon with a gift-card get to choose a brand new bike.”

The event, he said, takes a lot preparation. “Our volunteers pour their time and energy before the dinner into preparing Christmas stockings and socks filled with candy and small gifts – for not only the Christmas dinner guests, but also underprivileged families throughout the city. Over 1,000 socks and stockings are handed out every year, to men’s and women’s shelters.”

Asked to put the Extreme Outreach Society’s mandate in a nutshell, Cliff Power said it is “focused on developing our future leaders in a way the not only appeals to our children, but also helps them make choices that lead to productive lifestyles.”

Contact: 250.384.2064 or extremeoutreach.com.

December 2010