In the Community

Zach Blakeman, Martin Snowball and Jack Trembath of the West Vancouver senior boys rugby team are excited about their Jan. 7 fundraiser. Bartlett Tree Service has donated a chipper for the teams Christmas tree chip-up.

THE Cause We Care Foundation has chosen North Shore Crisis Services Society's HOPE's Place as a recipient for a donation from its Emergency Fund.

Just let go

Rainforest Programs for Adults - Forest Pharmacy: Learn about forest plants and common weeds that heal Sunday, Feb. 4, 1-2: 30 p.m. at Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre, 3663 Park Rd., North Vancouver. Fee: $5. Registration: 604-990-3755. Info: www.dnv.

Holiday Hi-Light Festival: Park & Tilford will have a display of more than 50,000 lights at the community gardens until Dec. 31 at 333 Brooksbank Ave., North Vancouver.

Wednesday The Ambleside Orchestra rehearses Wednesdays, 3: 305: 30 p.m. at Highlands United Church, 3255 Edgemont Blvd., North Vancouver under the direction of Nicolas Krusek. There are opportunities for string players.

THANKS to the efforts of five local youth, the holidays were a little brighter for those struggling with mental illness on the North Shore.

Kids thrive in karate page 29 Kindermusik page 32

THE FOLLOWING is a selection of volunteer opportunities from various community organizations, made available through Volunteer North Shore, a service of North Shore Community Resources Society.