The Hussar Community Hall is one step closer to realizing its new look, thanks to a $150,000 donation from Cenovus Energy.
On Wednesday afternoon, representatives of the company were at the Sundowner Senior Centre to make the presentation to the Hussar and District Hall Maintenance Society to support its renovation project.
“At Cenovus we are committed to making sure that communities where we are living and operate are stronger because we are there,” said Mandy Bishop, Senior Advisor, Community Investment, Cenovus Energy. “We work with our community partners to build better futures together and we want to share in our success.”
She stresses the importance of the hall to Hussar and its surrounding communities. The company also utilizes the hall for its monthly safety meetings.
Bishop said she worked closely with the association to learn what their needs were. She explains that Cenovus’ community investment focuses on education, sustainable communities and safety.
“This one really fits with the sustainable community piece because it helps build community capacity,” said Bishop.
The hall was built in 1979 and while it has been well maintained over the years, it was time for some upgrades. The association has already tackled some of the issues including storage space. The next phase will be an upgrade to its electrical, plumbing, washrooms and kitchen.
Cenovus is supporting the kitchen renovation aspect of the project. This includes plumbing, replacing cupboards, and counters with modern and functional stainless steel fixtures. There will also be new oven and fridge space and a more functional layout.
With this donation, they will be renaming the area the “Cenovus Kitchen.”
“Our hall is a gathering place, like all halls are, for all ages, for clubs, wedding dances, showers, etc., our hall is used extensively,” said Kathy Dundas of the Hussar and District Hall Maintenance Society.
“Thanks to Cenovus we are able to start this project a little sooner than we have planned, and on behalf of the Hussar and District Hall Maintenance Society and the whole of our community, we really appreciate your generous donation.”
The Association has been working hard to complete the project. Earlier this year they were the winners of the UFA Rural From the Roots Up Contest and received $50,000. Chinook Credit Union also contributed $25,000 to the project.
