The Honeywood arena fundraising campaign launched recently with a call to the community to support a phased in $10-million goal.
A citizen led campaign is underway, overseen by a committee of volunteers. It is a result of critical repairs needed to the North Dufferin Community Centre ice pad and coolant system, plus repairs to the ceiling and roof over the Norduff Room. Mulmur council approved the renovations, with public support shown through a community survey, which also indicated there was community support to fundraise for further improvements to the facility.
A committee of about 11 people was struck, co-chaired by James Godbold and Lisa Thompson. Individuals with community ties, corporate connections and specific skillsets will come up with big picture approach to raising a large amount of funds leading up to 2031.
They are motivated by the threat of losing an important community asset, which, since 1912, has provided a place for sport and recreation.
The arena has a long history of community support. In 1948, $ 91,000 was raised to build a new arena in Honeywood. When it was destroyed by fire in 1965, the community banded together once more to get it rebuilt before the end of that year.
“Mulmur doesn’t have a downtown,” said Thompson. “This really is the heart of Mulmur.”
Godbold said a place to meet is needed in the community, along with the ice which provides an opportunity for team building and to build basic skills. The ice will be back in by early November, not to interfere with the upcoming hockey season.
Phase 2 of the fundraising campaign is to raise $4 million by 2027 for an addition to the south of the arena for change rooms, washrooms, a viewing area and the relocation of the septic system.
“We are doing a big push,” said Thompson. “The girls and women are changing in a storage closet – that’s tugging on the heartstrings of a lot of people.”
Phase 3 aims to raise $200,000 by 2028 for additional accessibility upgrades; Phase 4 includes 2029 improvements to the lobby, community room and the facade priced at $2 million; Phase 5 includes $1.8 million of infrastructure work, as well as an ice making machine in 2030; and finally, Phase 6 includes $300,000 for parking, landscaping and outdoor amenities by 2031.
“This is going to be an ongoing project,” said Godbold. “It’s going to take many years.”
He and Thompson say every dollar counts and they encourage the community to contribute or get involved in any way they can. They ask people to get a lawn sign and spread the word as much as possible.
To donate, visit www.myhoneywood. ca. To learn about upcoming events and initiatives find My Honeywood on Facebook and Instagram.