Why I'm donating to the arena
Andrea gunn
Opinion Columns - Tuesday, July 10, 2007 Updated @ 7:04:48 AM
The community fundraising campaign for Kingston's new sports and entertainment centre is a quarter of the way toward its goal of $2 million. A few individuals, companies and agencies have set the project on a sure footing with large donations, and for that they are to be commended. But there are thousands of us in the community who can be part of the project without having to give large sums of money.
A small donation of $5 or $10 is just as valuable as any large donation. It is valuable in the intent of the donor to contribute to the development of a community space for family and sports activities.
It's a way of saying, "I believe in the future of this community, and I want to be part of it."
Earlier this year, the future of the sports and entertainment centre project was jeopardized by a motion at city council to pull the plug on the project. A local radio station initiated an online petition to garner names and comments from supporters of the project. The outpouring of support was amazing. The comments ranged from the short and sweet - "Just build it already!" - to personal stories about what the centre would mean for Kingston. It means jobs. It means attracting musical acts, conventions and trade shows. It offers a venue for teenagers too young to go to bars to see their favourite bands, and for parents to take their kids to see family-oriented shows.
Some community members have made it a goal to hound the sports and entertainment centre project and try to hinder its progress. The centre has been used as a whipping boy for these naysayers, often under the safety of anonymity, so they can air their distrust of government or business, their fear of change or their envy for others.
Despite their efforts, the centre will move ahead. Raising money for a large project can seem an overwhelming task. But those who are passionate about making their community a better place continue to step forward and offer their time, their money, their expertise and their enthusiasm.
This week, I am dropping off my cheque for the sports and entertainment centre. It won't be for a huge amount, but it's my way of saying, "I'm in. I want to be part of this community's future."
- Andrea Gunn works in policy and communications and is a member of the Whig-Standard's Community Editorial Board.