Lake Shebandowan accessible camp could be saved by partnership
Teaming up with other organizations could be viable option to keep barrier-free resort alive
The future of an accessible camp on Lake Shebandowan remains uncertain but a potential partnership may be the answer to keep the barrier-free resort alive.
After months of uncertainty, HAGI Community Services for Independence executive director David Shannon said after this season, the group won't be able to keep the resort open on its own.
Teaming up with other organizations might be the viable option the non-profit group was seeking to stay afloat. Fortunately, groups such as the Hill City Kinsmen and rotary clubs have expressed interest in helping, according to Shannon.
"There's still much work to do, but the current idea is to form a management committee that will involve a partnership of all organizations so that then the operations can continue," Shannon said.
The executive director said potential partners could assist with funding and day-to-day management of the camp, which provides a venue for people with disabilities in the Thunder Bay area and beyond to enjoy nature and have an accessible outdoor experience.
"It's looking very good that we may be able to form a management committee so that we can expand services and hopefully by next summer, keep the camp going."
Bringing in partners would also be helpful in negotiations with the Ontario government on renewing the lease of the property, which is located 105 kilometres northwest of city.
HAGI has been operating the camp by renting the space on a month-to-month after its long-term lease ended in 2013. The Ontario Realty Corporation, a provincial government agency, has been leasing the property to the group.
The Ontario government has expressed interest in selling 6.8 acres of land at market value for over $860,000 — a figure the organization said they simply can't afford.