Celebrating Dr. Don Bailey: A Legacy of Health and Inspiration

In the heart of Saskatoon, nestled among the lush greenery of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, echoes the spirit of an extraordinary man whose influence has rippled through generations. Our organization, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, is dedicated to conserving greenspaces, including the George Genereux Urban Regional Park, inspired by Dr. George Genereux, an Olympian and close childhood friend of Don Bailey.

Dr. Don Bailey, an esteemed professor and pioneer in health promotion, left an indelible mark on the landscape of Canadian academia and public health. As we gather to honor his memory Tuesday, March 26, 2024 3 – 4pm CST we invite you to the Don Bailey Lecture Series put on by the U of S, so we can all embark on a journey to uncover the remarkable story of this visionary leader.

Born in Saskatoon during the tumultuous era of the Great Depression, Don Bailey’s upbringing was imbued with resilience and determination. After graduating from the University of Saskatchewan, he pursued further education in the United States, culminating in a Ph.D. from Indiana University. Returning to his roots in Saskatoon, Don embarked on a lifelong journey dedicated to advancing the frontiers of health sciences.

At the forefront of Don’s illustrious career were his groundbreaking research projects, each a testament to his unwavering commitment to improving public health. From the Saskatchewan Growth and Development Study to the Lifestyle Inventory Fitness Evaluation and the Bone Mineral Accrual Study, Don’s pioneering work shed light on critical aspects of human development and well-being.

Yet, it was Don’s involvement with ParticipACTION that catapulted him into the national spotlight as a champion of physical activity and healthy living. Serving on the board for over two decades, Don played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s initiatives, including the iconic media campaign highlighting the fitness levels of Swedish and Canadian men.

In the spirit of his enduring legacy, the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas have revived the ParticipACTION Community Challenge, igniting a passion for active and inclusive lifestyles across Saskatoon. Through a series of events throughout June, we aim to foster community pride and engagement, embodying Don’s vision of a healthier, more vibrant society.

As we eagerly anticipate the 2024 Don Bailey Lecture Series, we are greeted by Dr. Adam Baxter-Jones as the distinguished speaker. Dr. Baxter-Jones, a renowned scholar in the field of children’s growth and maturation, embodies the spirit of innovation and excellence championed by Don Bailey.

Don Bailey was a member of the Board of Directors of ParticipACTION Canada since its establishment in 1971.

In his final days, surrounded by loved ones, Don Bailey’s legacy lives on—a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. As we reflect on his remarkable life and contributions, let us carry forward his legacy with pride and purpose, striving to make the world a healthier and happier place for all.

In the words of Dr. Don Bailey himself, “Dem Bones” tells the tale of resilience and strength, reminding us of the importance of nurturing our bodies and minds. As we honor his memory, let us continue to build upon his legacy, ensuring that his dream of a healthier world becomes a reality.

Rest in peace, Dr. Don Bailey, knowing that your legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those you’ve touched. The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas are honoured to submit that we are working on reviving the Saskatoon ParticipACTION Community Challenge in Saskatoon which is committed to including everyone from equity deserving groups throughout the entire population to embark in an active lifesyle. Stay tuned for more details and how you can support and become involved in the Saskatoon ParticipACTION Community Challenge happening in the month of June! Contact us friendsafforestation@gmail.com to collaborate!

Child running through the forest having a great time connecting with nature

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A

S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A

NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063

Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot

Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com

Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map

Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map

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Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

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United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”

Richard St. Barbe Baker