It has been over 20 years since the idea of a member-owned and operated community centre was first initiated. As an established cooperative with a beautiful facility, our community has had a place to celebrate, collaborate and create for over a decade. The Centre Wakefield La Pêche Cooperative has succeeded thanks to the efforts of many volunteers, dedicated partners, and numerous funders.  We are now well beyond the start-up stage and finding that the care of our building and meeting changing needs, interests, and growth in our area is pulling us beyond our human and financial capacity. We need stability and sustainability to thrive as a cooperative committed to serving the community we love.

Since 2018, efforts have been ongoing to explore solutions for the long-term sustainability of the centre.  Numerous studies, engagements, and meetings have taken place including, in 2021, an offer from the Municipality of La Pêche to take over ownership of the physical facility. This preliminary offer included costs of maintenance, balance of mortgage, and continual repairs of the building. We, as a cooperative, would run the community programs, camps, activities, and events.  We would also continue to share our space with the library, the WAY,  and other partner initiatives. 

In the fall, we will hold our Annual General Meeting to not only elect a new board of directors but also decide whether the Center’s future should include an expanded partnership with Municipality of La Pêche.

This page has been created to provide members the information needed to make an informed decision, and an online opportunity to provide your input on what a new agreement with the Municipality should include for the successful transfer of ownership and ask any questions. Please take the time to fully understand the opportunities and challenges ahead.