Bargain hunters, gardeners and food aficionados 鈥� mark your calendars for Saturday, May 4, when the G.P. Vanier Explore program holds its annual Giant Garage Sale fundraising event from 8 a.m.- 2 p.m.

The day will include a silent auction, plant sale, car wash, bake sale and delicious concession. All funds raised support Explore, an integrated outdoor education program incorporating leadership, learning and outdoor skills for Grade 11 students.

鈥淭he changes in maturity and confidence in our son have been remarkable since joining the program,鈥� said parent, Adam Kuzma. 鈥淭he kids are working hard and having the time of their lives.鈥�

The Explore Program is in its 19th year. It involves an accelerated academic program that enables students to learn skills in kayaking, overnight camping, and team building. Students have been able to experience trips to Tribune Bay Outdoor Education Centre on Hornby and multi-day hikes into Cape Scott. Future trips include Vargas Island in Clayoquot Sound, and a Broughton Archipelago trip to study marine mammals.

Donations can be dropped off on Friday, May 3 from 3-6 p.m. at Vanier Secondary, located at 4830 Headquarters Rd. in Courtenay.