PALS and Big Brothers Big Sisters commemorate 25 years supporting local students at 11th annual Saint John Soapbox Derby
Three dozen soapbox cars will be racing down Saint John, N.B.’s Cranston Avenue at the 11th annual Saint John Soap Box Derby. This year, a brand-new car will be entering the race to commemorate 25 years of PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools).
The event is presented by the Saint John Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists in support of PALS. On June 7, young racers in cars running solely on gravity will compete to see who can roll to the finish line the fastest. Each car represents a local school and is sponsored by a local business.
A total of 34 soapbox cars will be racing this year. Among them are seven sponsored by J.D. Irving, Limited PALS partners:
- Prince Charles – J.D. Irving, Limited
- Centennial – Atlantic Towing
- Seaside Park – Irving Pulp & Paper
- Seaside Park - Irving Tissue
- Saint Rose – NB Southern
- Glen Falls – Irving Paper
- Lakewood Heights – Sunbury Transport
To commemorate the 25th anniversary of PALS, PALS and Big Brothers Big Sisters are adding a new car to the roster. The car was unveiled on June 3 surrounded by representatives from Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Saint John Soapbox Derby Committee, PALS as well as the Derby team.
“This year we are marking a significant milestone in the mission of PALS in partnership with educators, local businesses, community partners and volunteers to support and promote student success from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and beyond.” said Deborah Fisher, PALS Coordinator. “PALS has been involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters from the start, and its mentorship program has helped hundreds of local students reach their full potential. This soapbox car will leave a legacy as it races in many events to come.”
The Saint John Soapbox Derby raises funds for PALS in the Park. Each year, this program brings over 2,000 students from 25 local schools to Rockwood Park for co-curricular recreational and educational activities.
Since its founding 25 years ago in partnership with Anglophone South School District, PALS has grown to support over 30 schools with over 150 community partners.
