The St. Andrews Lodge Historical and Cultural Society (SALHACS) has received a $25,000 donation by local resident Pat Jacobson.
“I am honoured to offer this gift to assist the St. Andrews Lodge Historical and Cultural Society in realizing its goal of preserving the Lodge and with it, an important slice of our social, cultural and economic history,” said Jacobson via news release. “Our history is what we are today. The Little family had a huge impact in shaping it, on many levels.”
The cheque was presented on Nov. 18 to society vice-president Judith Kemp during a gathering at the lodge that included town councillors and staff, SALHACS board members and society volunteers.
“The Lodge sits in a spectacular seaside park named Saahtlam,” Jacobson said.“Meaning ‘green at the mouth of the river.’ The name was recently gifted from Chief Michael Recalma and the Qualicum First Nation. So, we have a special combination of ‘settler history’ on land inhabited by and important to Indigenous peoples over many centuries.”
READ MORE: Forward House in Parksville receives community donation
The society said it has received a number of personal donations since its recognition by the Canada Revenue Agency as a registered charitable society that is able to issue tax receipts. Other fund-raising plans include applications for grants and a number of special events in the coming year, including the continuation of the Twilight Concert Series.
“This is a wonderful community-driven opportunity to bring the vision to life, for the enjoyment and benefit of residents and visitors alike,”Jacobson said. “I strongly encourage others to get involved in whatever way they can to help the Society achieve its goals.”
Further information on SALHACS, its activities, volunteer opportunities and methods of support can be obtained on the group’s website at www.salhacs.ca or via e-mail at standrewslodgeqb@gmail.com.
— NEWS Staff