MANITOULIN—Christmas came early this year for three Manitoulin organizations who all received grants from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF): the Manitoulin Island Country Club, Sudbury Manitoulin Children’s Foundation and 4elements Living Arts.
The Island organizations were three of 324 not-for-profit and charitable organizations across Ontario to receive funding from OTF.
“Through investments announced today, local organizations have the support they need to make their countries, towns and cities stronger,” an OTF press release stated. “Each unique community in Ontario, with its challenges and assets, contributes to a dynamic and united province.”
The Manitoulin Island Country Club, owned and operated by the Gordon/Barrie Township, received $108,000 to improve accessibility and winterize the clubhouse. The improvements will allow for year-round access and assist with the development of a four-season tourism facility in Western Manitoulin.
“This was the greatest news,” Gordon/Barrie CAO/clerk-treasurer Carrie Lewis told The Expositor. “The funding was very much needed. We will be using the money to build ramps, widen doorways and level the floors for improved accessibility, in addition to winterizing the building.”
“In the winter the grounds are used for cross country skiing so we are hoping that with the renovations we will be able to have a year round club house for both guests and the community to enjoy,” added Ms. Lewis.
The Sudbury Manitoulin Children’s Foundation will receive $99,500 from the OTF over a two-year period to fund a director of marketing and research position, outreach and educational activities, evaluation and network developments.
“This initiative will enhance and expand programming for children who are disadvantaged in the Sudbury and Manitoulin districts,” states the OTF release.
According to the organization’s website, the Sudbury Manitoulin Children’s Foundation is “mandated to promote, devise, sponsor, establish, assist, develop and participate in measures and programs calculated to benefit children and families, provided such is consistent with the present objects of the entity known as the Children’s Aid Society for the Districts of Sudbury and Manitoulin.”
Lastly, 4elements Living Arts will receive $142,500 over two years to hire an executive director and help fund administration costs for the Manitoulin-North Shore arts organization that has a strong environmental focus.
“This will provide leadership to staff and board members and help deliver programs, which will improve the sustainability of the organization,” the release notes.
“The OTF is funded through transfer payments from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport,” explains the OTF website. “This funding is derived from the Consolidated Revenue Fund based on the government’s business planning and allocation process, and is subject to adjustments made by the minister, Treasury Board/Management Board and Cabinet or the Legislature.”
For more information about OTF, visit its website at www.otf.ca
