We've done a heck of a lot of projects in the Waskesiu community over the last 25 years, thanks to the help of donors, partners, volunteers and the incredible support of Parks Canada. Resurfacing the tennis courts was our first project and the catalyst for us to be founded as a registered charity in 1999.
It's only fitting that we're going back to our recreation roots with the launch of a $150,000 fundraising campaign with our project partners at the Waskesiu Recreation Association: Phase 3 of Waskesiu Recreation Area Renewal.
Phase 3 includes:
Total project cost for Phase 3 is estimated at $650,000. We’re excited to share that $500,000 is in place to cover the cost of the new building and vegetation. We need your help to raise $150,000 for the two pickleball courts. Donate by August 15 for construction to begin in the fall of 2024. If the $150,000 fundraising goal is met, construction is set to begin in mid-September with completion scheduled for the 2025 May long weekend. Tax receipts will be issued for gifts of $25 and up.
We've got an exciting challenge from generous supporters including Jim & Simone Kerby on how to double your donation through a matching gift from now until August 15 for Phase 3 of the Waskesiu Recreation Renewal.
Jim and Simone are avid pickleball players (and maybe just a wee bit competitive by nature). Partnered with a couple other generous supporters, they challenge you to double your donation from now until August 15. Every dollar you donate to Phase 3 by August 15th up to $20,000 will be matched. You heard it!
We chatted with Jim and Simone who said, "We'd just like to say how happy we are with the development of the Recreation Area over the last 6 years. It has become a destination - a bustling hub of activity in our townsite enjoyed by everyone from toddlers to 96 year olds! We know that Phase 3 will continue to build on success."
Every amount counts. Double your impact and donate by August 15. Help us make the Phase 3 project a reality!
If the $150,000 fundraising goal is met, construction is set to begin in mid-September with completion scheduled for the 2025 May long weekend.
Pickleball has become hugely popular with a high demand for court time in Waskesiu. Phase 3 includes building two new dedicated pickleball courts on the recreation grounds. The courts require a gravel base, concrete pad, and the proper coating to create the pickleball surface. Fencing will be added too, plus new nets are required.
The existing recreation office building will be replaced with a new building which will be located further back from Montreal Drive. Nestled between the Ninja Park and Reel Rave picnic shelter, the new office building will better serve foot traffic from the diagonal path that enters the site from Montreal Drive. Parks Canada owns the existing building and plans to offer it for sale and removal.
After construction is complete, vegetation in the recreation area will be improved. Plants will be chosen from Parks Canada's approved list of native species, with preference for species that are resistant to damage from deer and elk, and comply with Fire Smart principles. Upgraded vegetation will also be used to soften some of the fencing found onsite and increase the amount of greenery in the area.
Phases 1 and 2 of the Waskesiu Recreation Area Renewal involved a multitude of improvements including Little Al's Mini Golf, Gordie Howe Memorial Fitness Park, Johnny Bower Sport Court, Norma McConaghy Shuffleboard Court, Reel Rave picnic shelter, Christopher Ridsdale Children's Ninja Park, Stanley Thompson Lawn Bowling Green, new beach volleyball court, and so much more.
Recreation facilities are one of the cornerstones of the Waskesiu experience. We've worked collaboratively with the Waskesiu Recreation Association, Parks Canada Agency and the Waskesiu Community Council to revitalize Waskesiu’s recreation facilities. Completing the Waskesiu Recreation Area Renewal was also identified by the community as a key project within Waskesiu's "Vision 2020 and Beyond" Community Action Plan.
The Waskesiu Recreation Association (WRA) is a volunteer driven, non-profit organization responsible for Waskesiu’s recreation facilities and activities, and also leads, or assists with, many of the prominent events that have made Waskesiu a popular destination for so many.
Short term objectives already completed:
Mid to longer-term objectives:
Why renew Waskesiu's aging recreation facilities?
You can support the Waskesiu Recreation Area Renewal today! Make your tax deductible donation by selecting "Recreation Renewal". Charitable receipts will be issued for donations of $25 or more.
Waskesiu is a special place and we’re proud to work with you to improve it now and for future generations. Thank you for making a difference!
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