The Smiths Falls Curling and Squash Club is launching a major fundraising effort to replace a critical piece of equipment needed to keep its four sheets of curling ice running.
The non-profit club needs about $200,000 for a new chiller as its existing equipment nears the end of its life.
General Manager Katherina Khoury says the current system should make it through the coming curling season, but the club knows it cannot depend on it much longer.
The challenge is significant for a volunteer-driven organization where revenue from memberships and events is reinvested directly into the facility.
Khoury is hopeful a combination of grants, fundraising and support from residents will help the club reach its goal.
Those efforts will include activities such as trivia and comedy shows, giving residents a chance to enjoy a night out while supporting the future of the club.
The facility has served the Smiths Falls community since the late 1800s and now has more than 200 members involved in curling, squash and pickleball. It also hosts community events and programs for people ranging from young children to seniors.
Khoury says keeping the facility strong will allow those activities and connections to continue for years to come.
More information on the club, upcoming events and ways to support it can be found at curlingsquash.ca.
