Residents who enjoy Watermark Park on the west side may notice a new monument on their walk through the green space.
In 2017, communities across the country celebrated the 150 anniversary of the Canadian Confederation. In Lethbridge, one of the many ways we marked this occasion was to create an urban forest at Watermark Park, which is adjacent to Senator Joyce Fairbairn Middle School on the westside.
The Canada 150 Forest at Watermark Park was a collaborative effort between City departments, Lethbridge Land and Recreation and Culture, as well as a partnership with the Lethbridge School Division. Through this partnership, community members were invited to donate $150 towards the purchase of a tree. Many donors chose to add a name or message to the monument as a way to honour a family member or loved one.
All of the money collected from the sale of trees went directly towards the City of Lethbridge's Recreation and Culture Fee Assistance Program. This program helps Lethbridge residents and families facing financial barriers be able to access sports, recreation, arts and culture programs. This program can be used to help with soccer registration fees, art classes, swimming lessons and much more.
"We always strive to bring high quality amenities to our communities and developments," says Spencer Croil, Land Development Manager. "It always feels great to partner with community stakeholders to create not only a beautiful landscape but also provide opportunities for residents needing assistance."
"The quality of life in a community depends on both its physical and social infrastructure," says Robin Harper, General Manager, Recreation and Culture. "This partnership initiative provided opportunities for some of our low income residents to access recreation, sports, arts and cultural programs and activities."
"Supporting this program was an easy decision for my family and I to make," says Tina Karst, Lethbridge resident. "Beautifying the city, helping the environment, and ensuring all families have access to cultural and recreational opportunities is so important for our collective wellbeing. I'm excited to see the monument in place at Watermark Park and am pleased to know that my children, and the entire community, will enjoy the benefits of this initiative for years to come."
For more information on the Fee Assistance Program, please click here.
We thank you for your patience on the instillation of the monument and look forward to seeing the residents of Watermark use it as a place to gather, celebrate and commemorate.
