Iconic Fenelon Falls Senior Citizens’ Club looks to develop with the times

MARGARET CUNNINGHAM, Fundraising Liaison

FENELON FALLS: The last 20 months have been very difficult on public venues intended for social and recreational purposes. The pandemic closures have been devastating for facilities that provide the much-needed occasions to meet, exercise and interact with others. The economic impact is hard felt by all involved. The Fenelon Falls Senior Citizens Club at 58 Murray Street, Fenelon Falls, has lost significant revenue from the lack of venue bookings and events normally held in the building.

“Despite hard times, the Club Board sees 2022 as an opportunity to re-energize the image of the building as a valuable community asset, encouraging new members to join and being able to host public events,” said Jean Smith, President and long-time club member. “We look forward to inviting the community to rediscover its amenities and the variety of opportunities within. We are open to all, really we are,” he added.

A fundraising program will be launched to address the financial shortfall the organization finds itself in, including the obligations to an outstanding mortgage on the building. The campaign themed “Coming Together for All in Support of This Community Asset” will have a widespread appeal to both individuals and corporate sponsors, presenting various fundraisers in the upcoming warmer season. Getting the fundraising appeal started early, watch for three 50/50 Draws, scheduled for January 11th, March 8th and May 10th, 2022.

Councillor Doug Elmslie, an avid club supporter, commented: “The Club has deep roots in the community. It has provided a venue for support, entertainment, social activities, and companionship for our mature population. They have always been a force for good and support for activities in the community. Now in these tough times, they need our help. I am confident the spirit of generosity that exists in our area will see them reach their goal”.

The Seniors Citizens’ Club of Fenelon Falls is responsible for managing and maintaining the building it calls home. A small and dedicated group of volunteers offer years of experience running this amazing organization and building. The Club and its members have served the needs of the Fenelon Falls seniors for more than 50 years. It is a not-for-profit, registered charitable organization with its entire operating budget coming from club membership fees, fees from club activities, donations, rental contracts, and fundraising activities.

For half a century, the Club has provided its members and patrons with a safe, friendly environment for all, willing to participate in various low-impact activities and social events. The members organize cards, shuffleboard and line dancing every week, among other activities and look forward to bringing Bingo back. Many special events such as dances, weddings, dinners, fashion shows, craft sales, and much more have been held there to much success.

The venue is an attractive, accessible building that replaced the original building, which was lost to fire in 2007. The building has a capacity of 150 during a licensed event and 185 during unlicensed events. The facilities are not limited to a senior audience but appeal to all Fenelon residents, no matter what age or interest. The amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, ideal for catered special events, workshops, trade/consumer shows, indoor markets and exercise/indoor sports events. Efforts will be to attract new users and reintroduce the fully equipped facility to those who have a need to accommodate special events and occasions.

Inquiries on how to assist and support both in time and financial contributions are welcomed and encouraged. Please call 705-887-7007, visit our website at www.fenelonseniors.com or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FenelonFallsSeniorCitizensClub/ for further information on the venue, the club membership and activities.

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