Michelle Wilson, MW Photography began sharing her #smallbusinessstoriesbymwphotography a few weeks ago and I've been following along. I decided to reach out and ask her if I could share her heartfelt words and beautiful (and sometimes eerie) photographs of local non-profit businesses. Everywhere we look on social media feeds and news stories we see how local businesses are struggling, but we don't often see stories about the non-profits who are struggling right along with the rest of us.
Please keep reading to see what Michelle has to say about the Chestermere Recreation Centre, view some of her photos of the facility, and see how you may help:
 | Email: mwphotographychestermere@gmail.com Website: http://www.mwphotographychestermere.com Instagram: mwphotographyinchestermere Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fotosbymichelle/ |
Today in #smallbusinessstoriesbymwphotography we will be taking a look at what most people in our community consider “the hub” for activity; The Chestermere Recreation Centre. I asked the manager, Jody Nouwen to tell us a little bit about #ourreccentre.
Did you know that the rec centre opened in 1982- 38 years for the current facility!! However, the Chestermere Regional Community Association (CRCA) existed and provided recreation services to the community prior to this building (being) open.
Jody tells us how this pandemic has impacted #ourreccentre “We are no longer serving customers through facility bookings, programs or rentals. We have taken out all of our ice surfaces in the arena and curling areas. We are doing general upkeep of the facility and taking the time to do deep cleaning that we may not normally have time to do. We will also be getting the outside grounds cleaned up once the snow clears and doing regular spring outdoor maintenance. All work is being done with the limited staff that remain on payroll and by practicing physical distancing as well as using the recommended sanitization processes for workers. “
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As I sit here this morning trying to decide which images to post with today’s #smallbusinessstory I can’t help be feel sad remembering how eerie it was to take the images. For a building that is normally so full of life and energy, the silence was overpowering. It closed in on me. It made me feel like #ourreccentre was missing its people.
As you swipe through today’s images think about all the great memories you and your family have had there. Now think about how we are going to create new ones(when we can).
I asked Jody what she would like the community to know about what is happening with The Chestermere Recreation Centre. “There is some good news to share. We had applied for a few grants back in September when we faced closure of the facility due to structural issues with the Red Arena roof. We did receive 2 grants, one from the provincial government and one from the municipal government, and we are very grateful for these. With this, we are able to start the roof repairs this April. The hope is that all will be complete when we get permission to re-open.”
Also, “Management is working on new recreation opportunities for the community through programs and events and is excited to share those with our members and users as we re-open. If we are able, we plan to offer summer camps for children this July. Customers can register for summer camps at www.chestermerecrca.com.
Full refunds will be offered should we not be able to provide camps. In the meantime, anyone who needs to reach us should contact us via email at accounting@chestermerecrca.com as the office is no longer open.”
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Last year I remember gathering in the parking lot with everyone to show support for #ourreccentre when we came close to losing it! Today let’s remember how we rallied to show our support because when this whole #physicaldistancing is over #ourcommunity is going to need us!
I asked Jody What stories do you want to be telling in a year? “We want to look back and talk about how we got through the difficult times by managing resources and making solid business decisions with minimal impact to the community. We will talk about the amazing re-opening party we (will) put on for the community once things turn around! We miss seeing the kids on the ice, the smell of popcorn and fries in the lobby and the general sense of community as everyone gathers at the centre. We can’t wait to see you all!
How You Can Help The Recreation Centre:
PURCHASE A MEMBERSHIP: 2020/2021 Memberships are available online (Family, Single, or Senior). Membership fees help support the maintenance of the facilities. Member benefits include:
- A 20% discount on facility rentals (excluding hall rentals).
- An opportunity to participate in events and activities held at the Recreation Centre.
- Complimentary scheduled Shinny Hockey (Once per week).
- Complimentary scheduled Public Skating (Three times per week).
- Complimentary scheduled weekend drop-in curling (Every Saturday 1-3 pm).
- Discounts on recreation program registration (Save approx. $25 off each program).
- Accident insurance for members participating in scheduled events and programs.
SHAW CHARITY CLASSIC: BIRDIES FOR KIDS: Donate to the CRCA through Birdies for Kids today! The Chestermere Regional Community Association (CRCA) is proud to partner with Shaw Charity Classic’s Birdies for Kids program. This partnership allows the CRCA to fundraise to provide affordable and educational indoor and outdoor recreational activities – in a safe, clean and inviting environment. Working together with the community, the CRCA aims to contribute, facilitate, and promote solutions for the enrichment of all. Shaw Birdies for Kids provides us with an opportunity to raise funds, and they’ll match up to 50% of our donations. Donate to the CRCA by visiting Birdies for Kids
