Things are hoppin’ at new CC

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 31/8/2015 (1202 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

In March 2011, our community was dealt a severe blow when the East Elmwood Community Centre was devastated, destroyed by a fire.

The centre, which was built in the late 1950s, had for generations been a gathering place for young people and families and provided great sport and recreational programs for everyone.

For me rebuilding our community centre better than before was a top priority. We wanted to make sure that families in our neighbourhood had access to more and better programs. That is why the decision was made to relocate the new 10,000 square-foot centre to Keenleyside Park to be more accessible and be closer to high density housing and many young families. To better accommodate the changing needs of our community, the new centre features a large gym, kitchen, a multipurpose room and an outdoor ice rink.

I’m very proud that our government partnered with the city early on to provide half of the $5 million in funding necessary to build the new facility. The official grand opening ceremony is being scheduled soon, but I’m happy to report that the new centre is already open to the public.

The community centre is set to provide many great programs for the community. The gym is open for free play on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. for children six to 12. The Together in Elmwood Parent Child Coalition has their Parent & Tots program every Wednesday. Also on Wednesday and Thursday evenings between 6 and 9 p.m., the Youth Action Centre takes place for those aged 13 to 18.

There are also a number of programs offered there through the Winnipeg Leisure Guide, like taekwondo, indoor soccer, dodgeball and basketball. In addition there are classes available that include designing and creating your own mukluks and gauntlets. Most of the programming will begin after the Labour Day weekend.

I will also be once again hosting my annual free community barbecue on September 9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in front of the East Elmwood Community Centre at 490 Keenleyside St. You are welcome to come join me for this fun event and take the opportunity to check out the new centre.

If you have any questions about this or any other local organizations in our community, feel free to call me at 204-654-1857 or find me on Facebook under Matt Wiebe for news and other announcements.