BY DUCK PATERSON
It’s taken a few years, but persistence has seemed to paid off for the Ladysmith Community Fund Society — and paid off even better for local community charities.
“Our goal is to be a catalyst in establishing a permanent endowment community fund,” said fund chairperson Bruce Whittington. “The goal of the fund is to distribute earned funds annually based on an application and approval process.”
Earlier this spring, the community fund issued a call for proposals for 2024 grants. Whittington said the grants committee was pleased with the strength of the proposals and decided to award three grants, to the Community Circles Restorative Justice Society, the Other Guise Theatre Company and Ladysmith First United Church Hall.
“It’s always hard to pick one group over another,” said Whittington, “but it’s part of the job.”
The justice society is receiving $600 to help fund its workshop series called Building Bridges Through Understanding the Village.
“The project will educate and involve residents in activities and processes that seek solutions in addressing harm and conflict in their communities,” said director Deanna Wrate.
The Other Guise Theatre Company submitted a program called Super Shorts: An Evening of Short Play Readings, which received a grant of $300.
“With holding professional performances, it’s hoped to inspire emerging artists to strengthen their skills,” said the company’s executive director, Matthew Payne.
The third grant was $200 paid toward the renovations of the First United Church Hall in Ladysmith. Whittington said while the grant will benefit the members of the church, it will also help to improve an important community amenity, as the hall is used by a variety of community organizations.
“The best news was that two donors came forward and offered to match the LCFS contribution, so its value was tripled,” said church administrator Mimi Zuyderduyn.
The community fund cheques were presented at the Better Together Volunteer Fair on April 14 at Aggie Hall. The fair was put on by the community fund society and the Rotary Club of Ladysmith.
“LCFS continues to build the Ladysmith Community Fund so that larger grants will be possible in the coming years,” said Whittington.
The society is looking to fill two seats on its board of directors. For more information, visit www.ladysmithcommunityfund.ca.
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