PREECEVILLE, Sask — The Crossroads Credit Union announced the recipients of funding from the Crossroads Community Investment Fund during Credit Union Day on Oct. 15.
Coffee and cake were served on Oct. 15 during the day celebrating at the Preeceville, Canora and Wadena locations.
Oct. 11-17 is Co-op Week, a time to celebrate the positive impact co-operatives have on members, communities, and the economy. As a member-owned financial co-operative, Crossroads Credit Union says it is proud to be part of a movement that puts people first and invests in the communities it serves.
This year's theme, "Power the Economy," recognizes the important role co-operatives play in building strong, resilient communities. According to the Crossroads website, International Credit Union Day is a global celebration of the credit union movement and the positive impact credit unions have on their members and communities.
Assiniboine River Archery Club received $3,000. “We are an archery club that has been operating in our community for over 35 years. Project: Renovation of Newly Purchased Facility. Funding will support ongoing renovations to the archery club’s newly purchased facility, helping create a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable environment for archers of all ages. These improvements will enhance the club’s ability to serve current members and encourage more individuals and families to participate in the sport."
The Assiniboine River Hope Mission received $3,750. The mission is a non-profit whose mission is to reduce food insecurity in the Preeceville/Sturgis and Endeavour area. Project: Christmas Hamper Food Program.
Assiniboine River Hope Mission has received funding to support its Christmas Hamper Program. By helping reduce food insecurity and brighten the holiday season for local families, the organization continues to make a meaningful difference in communities across the region.
The Preeceville Fire Department received, $10,000. The Preeceville Fire Department is a volunteer, community-run department that Primarily Supports Preeceville; however, they also support the surrounding communities whenever assistance is required. Project: Grain Bin Rescue Equipment. The Preeceville Volunteer Fire Department has received funding to purchase Grain Bin Rescue Equipment and provide specialized training for local firefighters. This investment will help ensure both the Preeceville and Sturgis Fire Departments have access to the equipment and the training needed to respond safely and effectively to grain bin emergencies throughout the region.
Lady Lake Regional Park received $4,000 for park upgrades. The park provides public camping and a beach area, including a hall for events. Funding will support park upgrades, including potable water access for the public, as well as improvements to the community hall, with plans for a kitchen and potable water to better serve community events and gatherings.
Preeceville Recreation Board received $5,000 towards a basketball court. The Rec Board provides safe, accessible, and inclusive recreational opportunities for all ages. The board works to encourage physical activity, healthy lifestyles, youth engagement, and social interaction, and offers the development and enhancement of outdoor recreation facilities. Funding will support the addition of a basketball court at the Bike & Skate Park, expanding recreational opportunities and promoting active living for residents of all ages. With basketball playing a significant role in the community and local student athletes achieving remarkable success, the new court will provide a place to practice, play, and develop skills while creating an even stronger community gathering space.
Preeceville School received, $4,000 for the expansion of outdoor learning and wellness education opportunities. Funding will support the expansion of outdoor learning, wellness, and place-based education opportunities for students. New outdoor gathering spaces, along with equipment such as snowshoes, cross-country skis, and other outdoor recreation resources, will help students explore their local environment, stay active, and build lifelong connections to nature and their community.
The SPE Family Resource Centre received, $3,000 for programming expansion. “The SPE Family Resource Centre in Sturgis provides community resources and a drop-in-and-play space for families from our drawing area of Sturgis, Preeceville, and Endeavour (SPE). We have been in operation now for 30 years! Our key pillars of our program are – children, youth, family, community, education, health, and wellness, which aligns perfectly with the grant pillars. All of our programs are free to attend for families.”
Funding will support the expansion of programs and resources at the Family Resource Centre, including specialized services and activities delivered by community professionals. Enhanced programming, new educational resources, and updated furnishings will help create an engaging environment where children and families can learn, connect, and thrive for years to come.
The Whitehawk Arts Council received $2,500 towards Sponsorship of Musical Performance. This organization brings live professional entertainment to small town Saskatchewan. Funding will support a musical performance series in the Preeceville and Sturgis area, helping bring high-quality, family-friendly entertainment to the community. By keeping admissions affordable, the organization ensures residents of all ages can enjoy live performances, and cultural experiences close to home.
The Preeceville Nursery School received, $3,000 for gym equipment. Purpose: Prepare, educate and help young children get ready for school life. Funding will support the purchase of new gym and physical activity equipment, helping encourage active play and support children's physical development. These enhancements will provide students with more opportunities to build healthy habits, develop fundamental movement skills, and engage in active learning, contributing to their overall growth and well-being.
The Sturgis READ Club received, $3,000 for automatic door openers. Purpose: To provide seniors in the community and surrounding area with recreational, social activities such as weekly coffee, cards, and pool twice a week. The club also provides educational sessions and public service. To support the well-being and interests of the elderly residents in the Sturgis area. Funding will support the installation of automatic door openers at the club, improving accessibility for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges. These upgrades will make it easier and safer for members to access the facility, promoting independence and ensuring the club remains a welcoming space for all.
Other recipients were:
Margo Community Rec Centre, $4,000 for hall repairs;
Invermay School Community Council, $4,000 for improved student seating;
Wadena Composite School Yearbook Club, $1,000 for digital cameras;
Wadena School of Dance, $3,000 for programming to build connections and community pride;
Wadena Pensioners and Senior Centre, $3,500 for recreation and wellness programs;
Buchanan Community Centre, $4,000 for kitchen updates;
Buchanan Club 60 Seniors, $2,500 for senior wellness and connection programs;
Canora Skating Club, $3,000 for competition equipment;
Canora Golf and Country Club, $4,500 for course improvements;
Town of Canora Leisure Service, $3,000 for weather-resistant picnic tables for the aquatic park, and;
Assiniboine River Archery Club, $3,000 for renovations of the newly purchased facility.
The total amount of funds allocated was $73,750.
