Community snow sculpture challenge to bring families together

One local woman is encouraging her neighbourhood to get outside and build snow sculptures as a way of connection in January. 

Julie Richard moved to the Charleswood area roughly five years ago and admits she hasn't found a way to get to know her neighbours well during that time. Starting this snow sculpture challenge is one way she hopes to do that. 

"I put this website together for people to be able to register so that we can distribute participation prizes," says Richard. 

She wants to make it clear that this is not a competition but rather something people of all skill levels can get involved in. 

"A friend of mine works for the Glenelm neighbourhood association and it's something that she does in her neighbourhood. I thought it was so creative."

Families have until January 24 to make something out of snow in their front yard. At that time, she will have a photographer come and take photos to put up on the website for all to see. 

"It's a nudge or encouragement for people to get dressed up, put some warm clothes on and disconnect from the internet and then try to build something," she says. 

Richard is a realtor and a mom to an 8-year-old son. She is hoping to try to make one with her son in the front yard as well. 

"Even if you didn't make a sculpture it's an excuse to take a walk and go see what the sculptures look like. It's a way to disconnect and be outdoors."

Richard hopes that this will create a sense of community in the Charleswood area of Winnipeg and that more events like it will blossom from this after.