A school playground project in Sparwood has received a $2363 funding boost, along with a number of other community groups.
The Frank J. Mitchell Elementary School Parent Advisory Committee was named the winner of the Community Cash Awards hosted by the East Kootenay Community Credit Union (EKC).
The funds will be used to increase the amount of playground equipment for both students and non-school aged children in the community to be used year-round.
The Community Cash Awards aim to develop healthy and diverse communities. Unlike other funding initiatives, they provided EKC members and the community the opportunity to “invest in” and select the award winners.
At the EKC’s annual general meeting on April 30, the award finalists set up information tables to promote their organization and project. Members and guests voted with their EKC Community Cash dollars.
Each of the groups received $100 from Kootenay Insurance Services and $500 for attending the AGM, as well as the real cash equivalent to the Community Cash they accumulated over the event. The group with the most Community Cash also received an additional $500 in funding.
“We’re excited that this process provides a fun and inclusive way to involve both EKC members, as well as local youth and the community, in selecting the Community Cash Awards recipients,” said EKC CEO Jody Burk.
The other award recipients were:
Fernie Pets Society - $1504
Funds will be used to provide fencing for the established dog park, which will increase the safety of the animals and people that utilize the park, and surrounding areas.
Fernie Family Community Garden by The Holy Family Church - $1133
Funds will be used to increase the accessibility and inclusiveness of the community garden for all demographics in the community, and support physical health and wellbeing with the connection to nature.
Sparwood Farmer’s Market Society - $1133
Funds will be used to increase sustainability and engagement of the market, as well as provide a venue, and growth opportunity for local businesses to contribute to the local economy.
Elkford Early Years - $1185
Funds will be used to purchase equipment and items for activities in the new summer outdoor program for children in the Elkford area.
Elkford Arts Council - $1345
Funds will be used to install a publicly accessible community art display “Pass in the Clouds”. This piece will engage and involve the community, fostering a connection between neighbours in a shared history and occupation of space that is shared in the valley.
For more information on the Community Cash Awards, visit Ekccu.com.