Minnedosa Tribune
FAMILY OUTING
DARRELL NESBITT/MINNEDOSA TRIBUNE
A refreshing early morning outing is an easy way to beat the afternoon heat, as this family showed recently in the vicinity of the new splash park at the Minnedosa Beach and Campground. Children are a community’s future, and their outlook at an early age has benefits, as after all, their emotions create their behavior, and their mindset hugely affects their emotions.
Sunrise Credit Union’s Building Communities Grant Program has awarded a $10,000 grant to the Sandy Lake - Elphinstone Handivan Project. This funding falls within the Individual and Community Well-being category, designed to support social programs fostering positive community impact, such as healthy lifestyles and inclusive opportunities.
The Sandy Lake - Elphinstone Handivan Services is powered entirely by community volunteers, is dedicated to providing safe and affordable transportation. The grant will facilitate the purchase of a new, fuel-efficient van, enhancing their service to the local community.
In addition to the Sandy Lake initiative, the grant program is distributing $46,730 across to other community projects. The Virden Auditorium Theatre in the Facili-
ties Construction or Improvement category is receiving $20,000 for significant upgrades. The Rural Municipality of Pipestone Handivan Service, receiving roughly $11,600, will use its funding to improve transportation availability for local residents. The Burrows Trail Arts Council has been granted $5,000 to enrich cultural accessibility by bringing renowned hoop dancer Dallas Arcand to local schools. Lastly, the Christian Heritage School in Brandon is receiv-
ing $1,730.68 for a literacypromoting orchard project.
Sunrise Credit Union noted that the spring grant intake saw 50 applications from across Westman and the Parkland area.
“It’s truly inspiring to witness the ongoing enthusiasm for theBuilding Communities Grant Program, witheach intake consistently receiving over 50 applications,” said Tim Klassen, President and CEO of Sunrise Credit Union.
“We are proud to support five new
initiatives this spring that not only strengthen the fabricof our communities but also foster sustainable, long-term impact.”
Since its inception in 2023, the Building Communities Grant Program has invested $178,048.68 in 16 projects. Sunrise Credit Union operates through 19 branches across Manitoba, including Minnedosa, Sandy Lake, Shoal Lake, Strathclair, and Virden. The next Building Communities Grant Program intake will open for Fall 2025.
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
Minnedosa Tribune