Summer officially begins later this month however the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) Recreation summer programs are seeing record registration numbers: many programs are already over eightypercent full. Camps will be offered throughout the Northern Recreation Services area including Nanoose, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, and Lighthouse Communities. Families considering registering are encouraged to do so soon to avoid disappointment. Once a camp or program is full a waitlist is created, and there is potential for new spots to become available. Specialty camps are offered in partnership with businesses, local groups such as the MacMillan Arts Centre, RLC Parks Services and local sports associations.
The RDN also offers many recreation programs for all residents including seniors and families. RDN Northern Recreation Services is responsible for planning, developing and coordinating the delivery of recreation programs and services to the communities of Parksville, Qualicum Beach and Electoral Areas E, F, G and H. Recreation services delivery includes; recreation grants, financial assistance program, inclusion support, summer camp programs, support for community events and community development initiatives. The RDN also does the scheduling for sports fields and courts within the City of Parksville, the Town of Qualicum Beach and School District 69.
“The social well-being of our residents is a priority for our current Board of Directors, and this plan will help us evaluate the way ahead for parks and trails in the Region,” said Chair Ian Thorpe. “Prioritizing sustainable practices for the management, acquisition, and servicing of our parks and trails will help to enact the RDN’s goal of making the region a safe and vibrant place for all.”
In 2018 RDN Recreation Services provided over 300 program opportunities, booked 21,000 hours of sport field and court use and saw more than 28,000 in program attendance.
“Recreation in the RDN including our busy summer programs, is vital to supporting the vision for the Regional District of Nanaimo’s newly adopted Strategic Plan which is to honour and protect our natural assets, respect our diverse communities, and promote and enhance the wellbeing of all its residents with a focus on children and families,” said Clarke Gourlay, RDN Oceanside Services Committee Chair. “We thank residents for their continued support of our recreation programs and facilities, Oceanside Place Arena and Ravensong Aquatic Centre.”