Investing in Slave Lake ~ all for community
The Community Foundation was very pleased to present a grant in the amount of $100,000 to Karl Hill, Director of Community Services for Slave Lake which will be used towards the rebuilding of parks and walking trails as well as building an indoor playground.
"It is great to be able to present these funds as we are enter into April, Community Foundation Month," said Tracey Vavrek, Executive Director of the Community of Foundation of Greater Grande Prairie. "It is exciting knowing that the funds are for an area that citizens come together and encourage health and wellness for all ages."
On May 14, 2011 neighbouring community Slave Lake faced devastation when wildfires ripped through the town, destroying a third of the community.
"Immediately our Foundation partnered with the Edmonton Community Foundation to coordinate community foundation efforts to launch the Slave Lake Rebuilding Fund," said Tracey.
With the one-year anniversary of that unforgettable day fast-approaching, Karl is pleased with the progress that has been made so far.
"On that day this year, there's a lot of positive that you can drive around the community and actually see. I think there are more smiles and more awe at what has occurred in that 12-month period than people thought could," said Karl.
Over $100,000 in donations was received from many caring citizens from our region and across the nation including other Community Foundations. Youth bands held fundraising events, corporations pledged percentage of sales and families came together to make donations as they felt the pain of the residents of Slave Lake.
"We extend a heartfelt thank you to those who supported the Slave Lake Rebuilding Fund for the dedication to help our neighbours in their time of need," said Tracey.
Mmmm...Apple Pie and Ice Cream!
