R.A. Steen C.C. is a vibrant community hub

Wolseley

Scenically nestled in at the end of a tree-lined street in the heart of Wolseley, the Robert A. Steen Community Centre, located at 980 Palmerston Ave., has been serving the community with a wide range of programming for all ages since the 1980s.

For the last six years, Joel Fingard has been thriving in his role as general manager, appreciating the opportunity to work with and interact with people in the community.

“Every day, new experiences happen that remind me why this place is so special –children laughing as they come through the doors for open gym or cooking class, and older adults gathered around a bridge table on a cold winter afternoon, sharing stories and enjoying each other’s company,” Fingard said.

“I love seeing the centre full of people participating in programs, events, and activities, all of them having fun and connecting with one another. Hearing community members thank the staff for organizing meaningful programs is always very encouraging, and it reinforces how important this space is for bringing folks together.”

The community centre, which is named for a prominent Winnipeg lawyer and politician who served as the 38th mayor of Winnipeg, provides everything from recreation programs and sports for kids to programming for seniors.

Whether it’s a winter carnival with day-and-night activities starting with a pancake breakfast and ending with a family dance – complete with a popular DJ pumping out the music – hanging out around the fire pit while savouring roasted marshmallows, an evening skate with friends and family, a Friday night movie with popcorn on hand, or browsing various indoor and outdoor markets at different times of the year, the offerings are as diverse as the community and its interests.

“The centre plays a vital role in bringing people together, offering something for everyone,” Fingard said. “It has served as a gathering place for town hall meetings, elections, charity events, programs, sports, and local markets. It’s a welcoming space where friends and neighbours can meet, socialize, and stay connected. It’s also a place to build new relationships, especially for those who are new to the neighbourhood. The centre truly belongs to the whole community and invites everyone to feel at home.”

Fingard wants people to know they can come into the centre, send an email or call to discuss anything they would like to see take place there.

“We are always open to hearing from folks in the community about any new ideas, programs or events – or feedback on existing ones. We really are trying to make the centre a hub of activity for the community.”

For a small fee, workshops, classes and programs are offered for anyone interested in life-long learning. Subjects have included language training, tai chi, chess, yoga, pickleball, and much more. Watch out for spring programming – registration will begin soon. (And yours truly will be offering a life-writing program for older adults.)

The Robert A. Steen Community Centre is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m., offers an on-site canteen and has a variety of rental spaces available for sporting events, programs and conferences. Financial contributions are always welcome and support accessible programming for all, helping fund new initiatives, extended club hours and improved facilities. In-kind donations and volunteering are appreciated and help make a positive difference in the community.

Visit www.robertasteencc.ca