Autumn 2023
A Message From Our General Manager, Mallory Biggs
Hello all,
As summer gracefully transitions into the embrace of autumn, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for making Summer 2023 at Five Oaks Centre truly remarkable.
This past season, our retreat centre buzzed with a diverse array of activities and guests, including summer camps, swim lessons, rafting trips, camping adventures, and day use visitors. Your presence infused our spaces with an extraordinary energy and spirit that made each day unforgettable.
I also want to take a moment to express our deep appreciation for our dedicated staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure your experiences were exceptional. Their unwavering commitment and passion have been the driving force behind the success of our retreat centre.
In addition to the joyful moments we shared, significant renovations and updates have further enhanced the beauty and functionality of our retreat centre. Notably, the Peace House has been revitalized with a fresh coat of paint, and our gardens have flourished under the careful attention of our volunteers.
As we transition into the fall and winter seasons, we eagerly anticipate a change of pace and look forward to unveiling a series of incredible programs. For those of you already planning ahead, early booking opportunities for Summer 2024 are now available to secure your future retreat.
Our mission to offer renewing and transformative experiences that promote reflection, connection, and joyful expression remains at the core of everything we do. Your presence and support continue to inspire us in this endeavor. Thank you for being an integral part of our Five Oaks family. We can’t wait to welcome you back as we embark on this exciting new season together.
Warm regards,
Mallory Biggs
General Manager
SUMMER SUCCESSES
Acorn Day CampWe’re celebrating a thrilling summer of Five Oaks’ Acorn Adventure Camp and Little Acorns Camp 2023! Yet another generation is making beautiful childhood memories here at the Centre. From games to outdoor adventures, our campers created lasting experiences, formed new friendships, and explored the river. As we say goodbye to this spectacular summer, we cherish the camaraderie and the outdoors. Huge thanks to Camp Director Kendra Perras and our dedicated Camp Counsellors. We can’t wait for next year!
Summer 2023 Recap
- 1375 Overnight Guests – June to August
- 540+ Day Camp Kids
- Hosted 3 Large Sikh Groups
- Welcomed 10,210 Swimmers with Brave Waves
- Thrilled 7,354 Rafters with Grand River Rafting
- Educated 180 Children through our Diversity School Field Trip Program
- Ongoing Land-Based Learning Program with 500 Children from North Ward School, Extending into Fall
Community Partners
Summer renewed two outstanding community partnerships at the centre: Brave Waves, the local swim school, and Grand River Rafting. These successes provide essential aquatic skills and thrilling outdoor adventures, deepening connections with nature. They boost revenue and community bonds, enriching our offerings and creating lasting memories.
Thank you for an amazing summer!
$150,000 OTF Grant Brings a Breath of Fresh Air
We are excited to share that we received the $150,000 Resilient Communities Grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). This funding played a vital role in the recovery from COVID-19’s effects. Completed this summer, the project significantly improved air quality, safety, and environmental sustainability by upgrading HVAC systems in the 70-year-old main building as well as retreat houses. The Resilient Communities Fund supports Ontario’s community-based organizations, assisting them in recovering, building capacity, and strengthening resilience and sustainability. The pandemic presented challenges, prompting staff to work remotely and suspending volunteer initiatives and programming due to outdated ventilation. The HVAC project prioritized eco-friendly and health-conscious upgrades, including transitioning from oil to heat pump systems, in heavily used areas such as primary meeting areas, offices, and retreat houses. “The Centre is thankful for completing this project, reinforcing our commitment to providing a safe, environmentally responsible community space,” expressed Michael Shewburg, Executive Director of the Centre. He emphasized, “Some key benefits include safer staff conditions and a secure haven for vulnerable communities, including Indigenous and Muslim partners, the LGBTQ+ community, and seniors.”
Five Oaks Upcoming Programs and Events – click link below for info.
DONATIONS AND MEMBERSHIP
Your continued support means the world to us at Five Oaks Centre, and we’re grateful for your ongoing commitment.
Today, we’re excited to share our vision: we aim to fundraising $70,000 in honour of our 70th anniversary!
How Your Donations Help: Your contributions will directly fund the centre, allowing us to serve our community and continue the Five Oaks legacy.
Donate Today: Please visit our website or contact us at (519) 442-3212 to contribute. Every dollar brings us closer to our vision.Online and mail-in options available. Click here to find out more. For the mail in form, please open this link.
Additionally, we kindly invite you to explore membership and volunteer opportunities.Your support – in all it’s forms – is a vital part of our journey and success.
With gratitude,
The Five Oaks Centre Team
Tax Receipts will be issued for donations of $20.00 or more. Registered Charity #: 107389108RR0001