Setback for Nawican Friendship Centre as it seeks funding for celebration

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Nawican Friendship Centre is seeking financial support for its upcoming 60th anniversary and childcare centre opening joint-celebration in August. 

During the March 19th Peace River Regional District (PRRD) meeting, the board of directors reviewed a grant request from the Nawican Friendship Centre for the opening of its early learning and childcare centre, completion of its Cultural Teaching Grounds and the 60th anniversary of the centre in Dawson Creek, scheduled for August 22nd. 

A staff recommendation to deny the grant request was reviewed and approved, as the amount of $50,000 was requested from the Sports and Cultural Events Grant-in-Aid function and the application was not eligible.

“The application describes the event as an all-day, inclusive community event featuring drummers, dancers, performances, family-friendly games and activities, tours of new spaces and local vendors,” the report stated. 

While the application detailed the funds would be used to cover event-related expenses, which are estimated to be more than $61,000, the function is only eligible for national or international events, not community events. 

Darryl Krakowka, mayor and director of the District of Tumbler Ridge, questioned if the centre had been encouraged to apply to other functions or organizations for funding, to which staff stated that information would be delivered once a decision was made about the application.

After the application was denied, the board voted to recommend alternative options for the centre to apply for funding for the event.