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Freestyle Ski Team’s Ryan Blais launches “Come Fly With Me” Foundation November 1, 2006, Grande Prairie, Alberta -- Ryan Blais, a member of Canada’s Freestyle Ski team and one of the top aerialists in the world, has launched his “Come Fly With Me” foundation in conjunction with the Community Foundation of Greater Grande Prairie. “The first aim of the CFWM foundation is to encourage and support amateur athletes that are striving to represent our community and country at the national and international stage” said Blais. “The second aim of the foundation is to create a 'connection' between Grande Prairians and the athletes that are representing them in various sports at various levels of competition. “It is one of the foundations core beliefs that athletes should take pride in their community, and in turn, the community should take pride in its athletes.” The CWFM Foundation’s goal is to raise $200,000 by the 2010 Olympic Games through a variety of fundraising initiatives and awareness campaigns. Along with an initial donation of $10,000 to the foundation, Blais will also use his profile in the community to draw attention to the campaign and will be meeting with community leaders to encourage local support for the Foundation. The foundation will provide financial assistance to area amateur athletes competing in Olympic, Paralympic and Special Olympic events in the amount of $500-$1000. “The Community Foundation of Greater Grande Prairie will administer the foundation and is dedicated to enriching the whole community by connecting donors with important causes, linking gifts to the needs of our community, and supporting local charitable organizations in their work. They inspire philanthropy by providing an opportunity for anyone to leave a lasting legacy to our community”. The Community Foundation of Greater Grande Prairie is hosting its annual donor appreciation “Vintage Evening Gala” on November 3rd at the Centre 2000 Community Centre and this event will mark the official launch of the CFWM foundation. “My goal is to be on the podium at the 2010 Olympics and I know I can not do it on my own” says Blais, “I’ve received incredible support over the years from the Grande Prairie community and I hope that the Come Fly With Me Foundation will help other young athletes achieve their goals while bringing them closer to their community. Grande Prairie has many young talented athletes with big dreams and I feel our community should be proud to provide them with financial support that will help them achieve their goals.” -- Posted November 1, 2006