Efforts to raise funds for The Gathering Place continue to pick up momentum in Sooke.
 
One such venture, the Spectacular Senior Contest, added another $19,075 toward the goal of $2 million for The Gathering Place, a new seniors drop-in centre and multi-generational activity space that's part of the Sooke Region Community Health Network's (SRCHN) plans on a parcel of land next to the Sooke public library on Wadams Way.
 
"Huge applause to Rosanne Day for the Spectacular Senior Contest. It was a great success, thanks to Rosanne and our dedicated volunteers," said SRCHN vice-president Mary Dunn.
 
Volunteering with SRCHN's Better at Home Program has provided Day with a first-hand look at the need for a place for elders to socialize and gather with other seniors and the positive impact that creates in their lives, Dunn said.
 
More than $14,100 was donated toward the project in August, bringing the total to $133,868, which underlines how fund-raising efforts are gathering momentum, Dunn said.
 
Dunn cited the Rotary Club of Sooke's donation of $8,000 in June, and the challenge the club issued to local businesses, non-profit organizations, and individuals, that Rotary will match donations up to $8,000 during the month of September as another great example of the kind of commitment the project has generated within the community.
 
"As a Rotarian, we see this as a win-win situation. Let's see that the donation thermometer moves up to the $2 million mark sooner than later," said Jeanette Wilford, public image chair for the Rotary Club of Sooke.
 
People keep coming up with fun ways to raise money, and that shows how important this project is, Dunn said.
 
Stay tuned for details on a comedy show/dance being organized by Jill Sweetin.
 
Rick Stiebel.