The Nanoose Bay Activities and Recreation Society (NBARS) has received $124,000 in funding for improvements to Nanoose Place Community Centre.
The funding includes $120,000 awarded to the society from the Regional District of Nanaimo under the Community Works Fund for three projects: roof repairs, kitchen appliances and a sound system, according to a news release.
The Parksville Qualicum Beach Foundation also recently awarded NBARS $4,000 to improve signage to enable newcomers to the area to readily identify the building (it is often assumed to be an adjunct to the neighbouring elementary school).
This donation was timely as Nanoose Place is undergoing a branding identity exercise in order to establish a recognizable and cohesive identity in the community.
NBARS is a non-profit organization that manages and oversees the centre, is currently fundraising for repairs and improvements to the two buildings under its care (Nanoose Place and a second building which houses a day care).
Although significant funding to assist with the cost of roof repairs has been received, much more funding is required for repairs and upgrades to the interior of both facilities, the release said.
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Thirty-five years ago a Lions service group began raising money to build a new recreation centre in Nanoose Bay.
Nanoose Place opened its doors in June 1992. The Nanoose Bay Lions continue to be a key user of the facility, but the wide variety of fitness classes, sports, arts and craft groups bring in over 1,000 people per week.
NBARS said it is very thankful to Bob Rogers, director for Electoral Area E.
The NBARS annual general meeting is to be held on June 18 at 6 p.m. and there is an opportunity for newcomers to the area to tour the building at at 5:30 p.m. prior to the meeting.
The current Board of Directors are looking for Nanoose Bay residents who would like to lend their voice to how their local recreation centre is managed.
Residents who would like to be involved are invited to attend the meeting and put their name forward.
For further information on the duties and responsibilities of board members, please contact the current president, Eve Flynn at eflynn@sd69.bc.ca.
— NEWS Staff