PARRY SOUND – The governing body of the senior’s drop-in centre is worried that if new members don’t step forward, the centre will close.
The Parry Sound Drop-In Centre’s board is losing five members at the end of this term in June, from its board of six directors and four executives.
If those positions aren’t filled, the drop-in would lose it’s provincial and municipal support, essentially forcing the club to fold, said three board members last week.
Busy
With the annual general meeting set for next month, no one has stepped forward.
“Too busy is the favourite answer,” said director Joan Huff.
The club-owned building is busy five days a week with people playing cards and darts, plus it’s used for special events such as wedding anniversary celebrations.
“What we’re hoping…is someone will step forward and form an executive,” said club chief financial officer Denis Baskey.
Those who use the facility pay a membership fee, but that’s not enough revenue to keep the club going if the board positions aren’t filled and government funding is lost, said Baskey.
The province provides roughly $8,000, through the Ministry of Health for seniors health programs, and the town tops that up with a $3,500 grant.
History
The drop-in centre was started in 1986 and the club bought the building on James Street in 1997. It provides a spot for seniors to go out of the weather, socialize and enjoy entertainment - sometimes, for example, a place to hang out while their partners are in town shopping.