Content of the article
In August 2021, the Quinte Rouge Paddling Club (QRPC) received a $14,500 Community Development Fund operating grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). After a difficult time going through the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to this support, QRPC was able to maintain ongoing programs, with the grant helping to pay for ongoing costs such as rentals, computer software, salaries and equipment. .
Content of the article
“The Quinte Rouge Paddling Club promotes a healthy and active lifestyle for people with extensive experience on the water through its programming of dragon boats, kayaks, canoes and paddle boards”, said Todd Smith, MPP for Bay of Quinte. “Our government’s support through the Community Development Fund has stabilized the waters and allowed him to look to the future with confidence as he plans competitive and recreational activities.”
“This grant has given our non-profit club some breathing room. We can now focus our energies, expertise and resources on delivering innovative paddle sports programming in a safe environment, knowing we have the funding to help cover our essential expenses,” said VP. President of the QRPC, Peter Kempenaar.
Content of the article
In an effort to keep members engaged and attract new ones in the pandemic environment, programs have pivoted. In-person workouts have gone virtual via Zoom in the safety of members’ homes. A learn-to-paddle program called “Get on the Water” was developed using solo personal watercraft borrowed from members and run by volunteers. New paddlers tried kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards and outrigger canoes.
In the spring of 2022, when it was safe to do so, the dragon boat was back. And the members too, new and old.
For more information about the Paddling Club and our programming, please visit: www.quintepaddlingclub.com
The mission of the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is to build healthy and vibrant communities across Ontario. As an agency of the Government of Ontario and one of Canada’s leading grant-making foundations, last year OTF invested nearly $209 million in 2,042 community projects and partnerships, including funding for the Government of Ontario Community Development Fund. Since 2020, OTF has been supporting Ontario’s economic recovery by helping not-for-profit organizations rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
