Men of the North will be invited to attend a council meeting to discuss the matter further. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

community organization

Town council denies Men of the North endorsement request

May 30, 2024 | 2:28 PM

The Town of La Ronge has rejected an endorsement request from Men of the North.

At a regular council meeting earlier this week, the request for such an endorsement was the topic of discussion after a letter from Men of the North appeared in the town’s correspondence. The letter stated by endorsing its efforts to seek funding from government parties and private businesses, the town can play a pivotal role in facilitating access to financial resources.

With their endorsement, the organization hoped to strengthen its credibility and appeal to potential donors, thereby increasing chances of securing the funding needed to sustain and grow its organization.

“There is a risk that activities or statements won’t align with the town’s values because, if we give a blanket endorsement, the Town of La Ronge name can be used in whatever way they see fit, which may not align with how the town sees the endorsement going,” said Coun. Abby Besharah.

“If we were to offer an endorsement, I would want to see a specific contract outlining the terms of what that looks like and maybe with limits on specific and quantitative limits on the demand on town resources because it is not very specific in the request. How do we know the demand on resources this will require?”

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There were concerns the endorsement was too general in nature. Council seemed prepare to provide Men of the North with letters of support for specific intents and they plan on inviting the group as a delegation to discuss the matter further at a future meeting.

“I would agree with you, Coun. Basharah,” Coun. Ryan Veteri said.

“I look at all the other non-profits within the community, like does the Town of La Ronge endorse them all? There’s lots of people doing great work. I don’t mind giving somebody a letter of support so they can secure funding, but from what I read in the letter, I don’t understand really what the ask is.”

The endorsement was also looking for support with advocation, networking opportunities, guidance or advice, visibility and a long-term partnership. Men of the North Founder Christopher Merasty explained he is disappointed by the town’s decision, but he respects the process.

“It is one of those things we need to just find other ways on gaining other support, so probably coming back and sitting down with them in-person, and going through the details and allowing them to know the endorsement letter and what it means and coming at that with more in-depth with what the endorsement request is truly about. Hopefully, we can come to a resolution where we are gaining the support from town council.”

The entire letter for endorsement from Men of the North can be found online here.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com