On 13 June, 2019, the Ukrainian Youth Association of Canada launched phase two of the Veselka revitalization project – A Vision for the Future – with a cocktail reception for members and supporters at the Ukrainian Cultural Centre Old Mill. The goal of the evening was to present the plans and raise funds for the campground’s continued development.
The revitalization project, initiated in 2012, began with the construction of the Michael Galandiuk Pavilion which, thanks to the dedication and commitment of the building committee chaired by the late John Koshyk, and the financial support of the many generous donors, was successfully completed. The Pavilion with a large hall and modern kitchen has become the focal point of the campground and the meeting place for a wide variety of functions.
Phase two also has a specific goal – the revitalization of the pool that since 1970 has provided years of entertainment for young and old alike during the hot Ontario summer months. The passage of time, coupled with the harsh Canadian climate, have taken their toll on the pool, and the time has come to renovate and upgrade.
Guests were welcomed to the reception by Chair of the Fundraising Committee Lesia Zelyk, followed by a short film about the history of Veselka offering guests an opportunity to reminisce about their past experiences during camps and other events at the site. The pool revitalization project was presented by members of the Veselka board Myron Bonk and Paul Kohut.
Chairman of BCU Foundation Roman Medyk addressed the guests highlighting the Foundation’s role and dedication to the development of the community, including the many events that ensure our growth and bright future. Moreover, he emphasized the significance of youth to the community’s development, specifically the youth of the Ukrainian Youth Association, and called upon the community to generously support the newly launched fundraising campaign for Veselka’s continued revitalization.
Giving the campaign a significant kick-start, Roman Medyk announced a donation from BCU Foundation’s Youth Development Fund in the amount of $50,000, and offered an $50,000 in matching funds for a total of $100,000.
In addition, every member of the BCU Foundation Board of Directors who is also a member of the Ukrainian Youth Association donated $1,000, including Roman Medyk, Michael and Anna Shepetyk, Oksana and Bohdan Ciz, Chrystyna and Taras Bidiak, Bohdan and Myroslava Leshchyshen, Orest and Irka Kostruba.
Another generous donation to the project was made by UYA members Adrianna and Paul Grod who announced their family donation in the amount of $20,000.
We call upon the CYM members and the community at large to build on the terrific start to the campaign by donating to the revitalization project. Donations can be made online at www.cym.org/ca.
O.Sokolyk
