By Karen Cay

Funding Inclusive Outdoor Programs in North Battleford

Jan 10, 2022 | 9:21 AM

In the spring of 2020, the SPRA Framework in Action Grant awarded nearly $50,000 to support community initiatives that showed alignment with one of the five goals of the Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015 – Pathways to Wellbeing.

The City of North Battleford was one of 12 communities that received funding and successfully offered outdoor education programs for families.

Staff from the City of North Battleford’s Parks and Recreation Department saw a need to make better use of their outdoor programming spaces. As a result, they offered a variety of programs throughout the 2020-2021 fall and winter seasons, including eco-education, outdoor Indigenous games, and snow sculpting.

Funding from SPRA’s Framework in Action Grant enabled the City to deliver these programs free of charge, and ensure they were held in accessible, easy to reach locations and applicable for all ages. This ensured Goal 2 of the Framework (Inclusion and Access) was addressed.

The programs were well received in the community and were a good alternative to traditional programming. They gave families a chance to participate in activities together without travelling far from their homes. Residents felt secure in the outdoor settings and were happy to be socializing while being physically distant. They were able to discover and explore new facilities and areas in their community.

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A prime example of this was the snow sculpting event held at the Allen Sapp Gallery. This event attracted lots of attention from visitors who may not normally visit an art gallery. International Award-Winning Snow Sculptor Patricia Leguen carved a snow sculpture in front of the Gallery called “Mighty Bison.”

As she worked, Leguen explained her process and participants were encouraged to join in and ask questions. One visitor commented, “I love it. Whether it’s impromptu or otherwise, the more art we can have – the better for everybody.”

The variety of program options offered by the City were well received and appreciated by everyone who attended. With so many activities cancelled due to the pandemic, participants appreciated the opportunity to be outside, enjoy the fresh air and participate with their friends and families in a safe, inclusive and structured environment.

The Framework for Recreation in Canada

The Framework for Recreation in Canada is the guiding document for public recreation providers in Canada.

You can download the Framework in English and French here.

The SPRA Framework in Action Grant

Supported through funding by Sask Lotteries, the Framework in Action Grant aims to support SPRA member initiatives that advance the goals and priorities identified within The Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015 – Pathways to Wellbeing. Initiatives will show alignment with one of the goals of the Framework and can be local, regional or provincial in scope.

The next round of applications open February 18, 2022. To learn more and to apply please visit: https://www.spra.sk.ca/funding/spra-grants/

For more information, contact:

Dan Gallagher
Field Consultant
Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association
dgallagher@spra.sk.ca
306-780-9218