Hall Beach (Feb 16/04) - When it comes to recreation programs, the community of Hall Beach has none.

The hamlet is hoping to change that, which is why they have brought in Densil Simmons and Leigh Reid from the federal Department of Community Services. The two are trying to create the framework so the community can offer fun programs for young people like basketball, hockey, volleyball and softball.

"The community doesn't have anything," said Simmons. "They have a community hall and one ball that is used for everything from dodge ball to soccer. It's not great for either game."

While the community is supporting the work being done by Reid and Simmons, one problem is they have no funding.

"There's just no money available," said Simmons. "Last weekend we held a registration and had over 300 kids sign up for everything from floor hockey to basketball. Now we need the funding."

Reid and Simmons are planning to approach the federal government to help provide some start-up money for things like hockey nets, baseballs, basketball and soccer balls.

"Everyone has been very positive and interested up here, but they are always forgotten about," he said.

At 18 years old, George Duncan, a volunteer for the hockey program, understands how important it is to have youth involved in sports and recreation.

"We used to play street baseball and hockey," he said. "Now there will be teams for children to join."

"I hope to see youth and adults have more things to do," said Symmon Pialaaq, another volunteer.

Simmons and Reid have been in Hall Beach since early January and will be there until June. Simmons said their goal during their six-month stay is to find enough funding and volunteer support so the programs can run on their own. They also want to expand the programs to include involvement of elders and create traditional programs.