BRUCEDALE – Guelph-Eramosa councillors have given enthusiastic support to the Order of the Bear drop-in program at Rockmosa Community Centre, renewing its lease for three years for a fee of just $1.
The program that includes a library of more than 200 board games is operated by founder Frank Marsh and a team of volunteers in the basement of the centre, also known as The Bear’s Den.
It has been operating under a pilot license agreement since September 2017.
“It’s a really good thing – people are building friendships,” said Mayor Chris White, noting the club provides a service the township might otherwise have to pay for.
Robin Milne, director of parks and recreation, said the program aligns with elements of the parks and recreation master plan, which calls for the township to offer community access to facilities and to evaluate opportunities to benefit children, youth and older adults.
Partnerships with outside agencies to provide drop-in space for youth are encouraged when there is community support.
“It’s good for kids who do not fit the mould of sports,” said Milne. “The idea is to make it a hub of the community.”
The Order of the Bear has an extensive schedule of featured games on weeknights and weekends (visit orderofthebear.ca for details).
Participation is open to kids 10 and older, and adults.Games nights are free for members and $5 for non-members. An annual membership is $20, plus $10 for additional family members. The group seeks donations and sponsors as well.
It received a $2,000 grant from Wellington County for equipment/supplies, including a 3-D printer that creates customized game pieces.
The group is sponsored by Goodfellows Field to Fork and Sweet and Nutty.
