Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Society announced today that the Board of Directors approved $20,000 for the Lakes District Film Appreciation Society Beacon Façade project.
The Beacon Theatre has the distinction of being one of only a handful of community-owned theatres in BC.
Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Society announced today that the Board of Directors approved $20,000 for the Lakes District Film Appreciation Society Beacon Façade project.
The Beacon Theatre has the distinction of being one of only a handful of community-owned theatres in BC. An integral part of the social fabric of Burns Lake and the surrounding rural areas, the Beacon Theatre serves as a starting point for entry into the workforce for many youth.
The Lakes District Film Appreciation Society recently completed a massive renovation of the Theatre. This grant of $20,000 will assist with completing the final phase of the renovations, the front façade. The updated façade will bring a new look and vibrancy to the downtown of Burns Lakes.
Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation says, “As its name implies, the Beacon Theatre has been a shining light for the cultural scene in Burns Lake and surrounding region for years. The theatre plays a critical role in the vibrancy and strength of the local economy by providing many young locals with their first job. Congratulations to the Lakes District Film Appreciation Society and the Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Society for their work to support this community landmark.”
Lianne Olson CSP Advisor Rio Tinto BC Works says, “Since 2010, the Lakes District Film Appreciation Society has worked hard to keep the Beacon Theatre operational while maintaining the nostalgia of the original venue. Thanks to their efforts, this community-owned asset continues to offer cultural activities to the residents of Burns Lake and the region, and creates economic value for the Lakes District. Rio Tinto is pleased to see support go towards this grassroots organization in upgrading the Beacon Theatre.”
NKDF Chair Cindy Shelford says, “The Beacon Theatre is an iconic community venue that not only is an economic asset but also provides a place for social connection (and excellent popcorn!) that is especially vital during these times. The Board is pleased to be able to support this project.
The next application deadline is January 31, 2022 For more information, please visit http://www.nkdf.org/ For requests under $5,000 applications are accepted on a continuous basis.
For more information on past projects funded throughout the NKDF investment area please visit http://www.nkdf.org/projects or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NKDFS
The Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Society was jointly established in 1997 with a combined contribution of $15 million by the government of British Columbia and the former Alcan Inc., now Rio Tinto. The Fund’s investment area includes lands impacted by the original Kemano project and focuses on the communities in the Ootsa, Lakes, Nechako and Haisla regions of the north.
The Society encourages applications from local governments, local First Nations governments and legally incorporated non-profit organizations. NKDF invests in projects that create sustainable employment, diversify the economy, and improve the basic infrastructure needed for community stability, quality of life and growth.
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