Paige Seburn
Niagara Now/The Lake Report
It was a full-circle moment for Christine Pritchard outside the Niagara Regional Native Centre on Saturday.
Pritchard, the centre’s Indigenous women’s health worker, was one of many there on Aug. 17 for its community picnic.
“I used to be a camper here when I was a little child,” she said. “So now that I’m an adult, and my daughter’s here, it’s full circle for me.”
The picnic, held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. outside the centre at 382 Airport Rd., is a way to give thanks to the community for its steadfast support and unity, Pritchard said.
The grounds buzzed with excitement as families enjoyed a variety of attractions on Saturday: kids raced into the inflatable water slip ‘n slide, played with various toys and crafts and tried their hand at an inflatable archery range.
The aroma of barbecue filled the air as on-site grills sizzled with food, complemented by coolers of ice-cold beverages and plenty of seating for everyone.
The picnic also included a community survey for the centre’s strategic plan, with a prize draw featuring an iPad, Apple Watch and AirPods.
Sean Vanderklis, the board president, said that the picnic is their chance to show appreciation — while having a good time.
“Historically, we get bombarded with the daily life of work and stuff like that. It’s a reminder to sit back, have fun and enjoy ourselves,” he said.
“Very rarely do we get to come together and usually when we come together, it’s to conduct a business.”
Overall, he said that the day was all about community spirit and good old-fashioned fun.
“It’s a good reason to come to the centre and just enjoy our beautiful property,” said Vanderklis.
Elly Thomson, who has lost count of how many of these picnics she’s attended, said that each year leaves a lasting impression, further deepening her already-strong appreciation for the centre.
“The Native Centre has helped me through my whole life, my little sister too, and my parents,” said Thomson. “Between rides, grocery cards, connections, programs, all of it.”
She said that celebrations like these fill her with hope for her children’s future.
She values the opportunities they provide for kids to enjoy a fun day, create positive memories and connect with the people in her circle.
