Tag: Community Grant Program

Saskatoon Heritage Society Marks 50 Years Telling City’s Stories 

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By Ryan Flaherty for Sask Lotteries 

As Saskatoon continues to evolve in its second century, one local group is doing what it can to ensure that the city’s history doesn’t get forgotten along the way. 

For the last fifty years, the Saskatoon Heritage Society (SHS) has worked to preserve numerous buildings, neighbourhoods and other sites of historical and aesthetic significance in the community that was first established as a Temperance colony in 1883 before being incorporated as a city in 1906. 

“Preserving and showcasing Saskatoon’s heritage provides the key to understanding the Saskatoon story,” SHS past president Peggy Sarjeant explained. 

“The buildings and special places, unique to Saskatoon, give the city its own special identity and provide a context within which we can appreciate the city’s history and trace its development over the years.” 

Founded in 1976 amidst public concern over the demolition of the Standard Trust building on the corner of 22nd St and 3rd Ave, the SHS has spent the last five decades advocating for heritage issues, promoting heritage awareness and providing a forum for residents to share their own heritage concerns. Its work takes on many forms including research projects, public lectures and workshops, walking tours of historic Saskatoon sites, a quarterly newsletter and an annual journal, the Saskatoon History Review. 

For many years, the Review’s publication was supported by funding from Sask Lotteries through the City of Saskatoon’s Community Grant program. Back issues are still available for purchase on the SHS website. 

“We are proud of our journal, which provides an avenue for local historians to reach the wider public with their research work,” Sarjeant said. 

Grant funding has also gone toward the Doors Open program, an annual public event that provides behind-the-scenes access to various historic landmarks and heritage architecture. 

This summer, Sask Lotteries funds helped the SHS celebrate its 50th anniversary with a special event at River Landing that showcased Saskatoon’s natural, cultural and built heritage with guided tours, guest speakers, art, music, dance and food. 

“The sun shone and the crowds came out,” Sarjeant said. 

The anniversary celebrations aren’t over yet. The SHS will mark 50 years of advocacy, preservation and community leadership with a special brunch event at Louis’ Loft on the University of Saskatchewan campus on November 14. Ticket information is available on the group’s website. 

Much has changed in the nearly 150 years since the first Temperance colonists took up residence on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River. As time continues to march, the Saskatoon Heritage Society continues to ensure that the city’s past remains an important part of its story. 

Community Grants help make summer fun for Elmwood residents

By Ryan Flaherty for Sask Lotteries

A tropical getaway is something many people dream about, but jetting off to Mexico or Hawaii for a week or two may not be a realistic option for everyone. Instead, why not bring the tropics to you? That’s the idea behind Elmwood Residences’ annual Summer Luau, one of its most popular events.

Based in Saskatoon, Elmwood Residences provides community homes and a variety of support services to people living with intellectual disabilities. Those services include a wide range of recreational outings and activities like the Summer Luau, which brings together residents, family, friends and community members to enjoy some fun in the sun right at home.

“Elmwood’s Summer Recreational Programming brings so much joy and excitement to our residents,” manager of community engagement Maggie Stevenson said. “It’s about more than just fun. It’s about creating real, inclusive opportunities where everyone can connect, grow, and feel part of the community.”

The the event is made possible with funding support from the Sask Lotteries Community Grant Program.

The luau is just one of many events and activities that keep Elmwood residents busy throughout the summer months. From attending a Saskatchewan Rattlers game to riverboat cruising on the Prairie Lily, visiting the Forestry Farm or taking a day trip to Manitou, there’s something for everyone.

Another favourite event for all involved is the annual Slip n’ Slide, which transforms the outdoor space at Elmwood into a backyard paradise complete with lounge chairs, umbrellas and an accessible slip n’ slide that allows residents of all mobility levels to participate. The feature attraction is a dunk tank where residents take turns gleefully sending Elmwood staff and directors tumbling into the water. Community Grant funds pay for all of the equipment rentals, ensuring the event is a success.

And while summer has since come to an end, the calendar is still full of events on the horizon. Holiday season celebration plans are already well underway and in January, Elmwood’s winter recreational programming will feature a variety of activities tailored to residents’ needs and interests.

“Knowing these experiences both in community and in-house are available for everyone, without barriers, makes all the difference,” Stevenson said.