Under the leadership of Larry Schultz the new FORT will honour our past and become a cultural, educational and recreational Gathering Place in the valley for the future.
Plans are underway to construct a FORT at the old SERM Site in our community. Phase One of this exciting project will include construction of the FORT and Welcoming Gates to the property. In cooperation with the Tansi Trans Canada Trail, Heritage and Nature Discovery Panels will be installed along the Tansi Trans Canada Trail, creating a "River Walk" to the Museum. Our goal is to complete Phase One by July 1, 2006 and celebrate Canada Day at the site.
Phase One is just the beginning of a total revitalization of the SERM Site property! Phase Two will be to renovate the existing buildings at the site to provide much needed space for our local cultural and youth groups - a community gathering place. Phase Three will see the construction and implementation of an outdoor Amphitheatre, which will bring professional theatre and visitors to the valley in the summer. It will also give local, provincial and national musicians, actors and dancers a wonderful place to perform. Overall, the project presents many opportunities and benefits to the valley community. Fort Qu'Appelle and the valley will become a dynamic destination! It will enhance Tourism opportunities and affect the retail and hospitality sectors with the economic spin-off. It will provide Volunteer opportunities, partnerships with our Aboriginal community, showcase our natural beauty and tell the world the history of the valley we call home.
Construction of the new FORT will begin in Spring 2006. Volunteers will be needed! The Lions Club of Fort Qu'Appelle will be building the Welcoming Gates, but people will be required to pound nails on the FORT as well. You would be welcome!
We need your help in getting Phase One off the ground! We are counting on community leaders and supportive individuals like you to help us reach our initial goal of $20,000.00. FORT Poles for Phase One are available for you to sponsor/purchase. We have developed several levels of participation. Two poles cost $100.00. Consider buying more than one! Buy one for each member of your family. Business categories begin at $250.00. Of course, individual donations may be made in any of the categories.
Although your name won't appear on the actual walls of the FORT, it will shine proudly on our Donor Recognition Wall at the new Fort site when it is completed. Tax receipts will be issued once we achieve Non Profit Status.
Your support will bring this exciting project to life! If you have any questions, please contact Ernie McNaughton (332-4181) or Bonnie Schaffer (332-4018). We have enclosed a reply form for your convenience. Please pop it in the mail with your contribution or call either Ernie or Bonnie who will be happy to pick it up!
It takes a valley to rediscover and honour our past. It takes a valley to build our future.