Whitecourt Rotary Club donates $100,000 towards future projects planned for Rotary Park

 

Rotary Park is one of the many shining lights within the community of Whitecourt. It gives residents of all ages a place to play, to enjoy the outdoors, and to get exercise regardless of the time of year. From the waterslides in the summer to enjoying the colours of fall along the trails to skating on the pond in the winter, and everything in between, the park is made for everyone.

The Rotary Club of Whitecourt is a big part of the growth that has taken place at Rotary Park over the years by continually helping to fundraise towards future projects and additions. On Thursday, March 8, Director of Community Services with the Town of Whitecourt, Chelsea Grande, presented the Rotary Club with its Master Plan for the future of the park.

With a slide show in hand, Grande shared concept plans for new proposed additions at Rotary Park including new soccer fields, an outdoor stage, sun shelters, multi-purpose pads such as basketball, tennis, pickleball, ball hockey and badminton, a new entrance and exit, expanded parking, and an Eco Playground and Pumptrack. She also shared plans for other projects outside of the park including Graham Acres and the area around the new École St. Joseph School (the Learning Campus).

After showcasing the Master Plan and answering questions from members in attendance, Grande and councillor Tim Pickard joined current Rotary Club president, Nevis Prufer, at the front of the room. With big smiles all around, Prufer handed Grande a check for $100,000 which will go towards the projects planned for the park. “You guys put a lot into the community and when we say that our mission is to improve the quality of life, we wouldn’t be able to do that without clubs and individuals like you in our community, so thank you,” said Grande as she graciously thanked the Rotarians for their generous donation.

One of the main fundraising events that the Rotary Club of Whitecourt puts on each year is Lobster Fest and this year it lands on Saturday, May 5. With different levels of sponsorship available, Rotarian Jenn Hendrickson is awaiting your call. “We do it once a year and we really need the community’s support. If you haven’t been approached by us, then you can certainly approach us! You can call me at 780-779-8698.” Along with plenty of delicious lobster, there is also a silent auction during Lobster Fest, and donations are greatly appreciated. “If someone would like to support us that way then they are more than welcome to give me a call.”

Supporting events put on by the Rotary Club such as Lobster Fest is a direct way that you can help support future projects within the community including the continuous and fun upgrades at Rotary Park.