Neighbourhoods thrive on community spaces, and the people that make those spaces welcoming.
Despite a rich and unique history of agriculture and tourism before that, Cordova Bay is ever changing, and wouldn’t be what it is today if it weren’t for the various community groups that weave its residents together.
In Cordova Bay, it means connecting young with old.
Lochside Park is home to the Saanich Fusion (formerly Cordova Bay) soccer association, and Lochside’s own Cordova Bay Fastball association. Both clubs are well known for a history of fielding successful teams. And thanks to the Cordova Bay 55 Plus Association, some of those same youth athletes have already mingled with Cordova Bay’s older adults through 55 Plus’ innovative intergenerational programs.
Co-founded by Rich McMorran, the 55-Plus centre has become a hub of diverse activities with a member-count that recently hit 600.
“The key is what you offer in the way of programs,” said president Dave Docherty.
The 55-Plus centre really got its start as a gathering place for those who were at risk to isolation and loneliness and the centre is proud to continue a Friday afternoon social program based on that model.
“Amongst all our [popular fitness and specialty programs], we are proud we still get 30 to 40 people coming Friday afternoons,” Docherty said.
Haliburton Community Organic Farms, churches St. David’s By the Sea and Cordova Bay United Church, and the preschool at St. David’s are also integral elements of Cordova Bay’s fabric. So is the Cordova Bay Association for Community Affairs, a voice at Saanich municipal hall, and the organizers behind Cordova Bay Day (this year on June 25).
Because a great community doesn’t happen without the work of special people, the community association and Saanich News have joined with core partners Tru Value and the Beachhouse Restaurant to launch the new Cordova Bay Community Leadership Awards. (See the nomination form on A20.)
“We’re happy to be chairing the nomination committee,” said CBA vice president Larry Gontovnick.
Nomination forms for the awards are also available online.