Things certainly seem to be moving in a new direction for Variety Place in Outlook, as the program facility for adults with disabilities held a grand re-opening on Tuesday, January 16 to celebrate the completion of some impressive new renovations and additions.
The special occasion brought out a number of invited guests and dignitaries, adding to the packed house of people who came out to see the new look of the building, as well as be able to say that they were in attendance as Variety Place also marked something of a new beginning for the long-time organization.
In attendance and speaking during the afternoon program were local MLA Greg Brkich, Outlook Mayor Ross Derdall, Variety Place Board Chair Mary Anne Karwandy, SARC Facility Planner Don Epp, and Russ McPherson, speaking on behalf of family members who have loved ones with disabilities who participate at Variety Place.
Serving as the emcee was Angela Knapik, Variety Place’s executive director, who was nothing short of proud and excited to see this day arrive.
“This was a long time coming and something that was well worth the wait,” she said. “This is really what it’s all about!”
“Variety Place is an integral part of our community, and it has been for a long time,” said Mayor Derdall.
Variety Place had remained closed in order to finish up the new renovations and upgrades to the day program facility, which amounted to a cost of approximately $350,000, provided by the provincial government. Walking through the new and improved layout, one can see the redesigned kitchen, offices and physiotherapy/hygiene rooms, as well as a dedicated exercise space, staff room, online training room, and even a cement patio for spring and summer barbecues. As well, a large and expansive lounge area features games and a plush and comfortable furniture layout.
It may go without saying that the participants at Variety Place are more excited for all the new additions to their programming than perhaps anyone; undoubtedly a far cry from the early days of the program when Variety Place used to work with “tight budgets and slim funds”, according to McPherson.
The celebratory event wasn’t without its share of sadness however, as the late Randy Kangas was remembered fondly by those in attendance. Recognized as a driving force of Variety Place within the community of Outlook and a key leader in helping the association reach the status it has today, Kangas was memorialized with a dedication of the facility’s sensory room, which will now be called “Randy’s Room”. On hand for the emotional sign bearing was Randy’s family; wife Linda, daughter Tricia and son Ian.
“It’s a happy sad day,” said Tricia, wiping away tears and knowing that her father and his deep-rooted contributions and legacy at Variety Place will never be forgotten or go unnoticed.
MLA Brkich said in a media release that programs such as the long-time one in Outlook help support those with disabilities to live an enriching life.
“Community-based organizations like Variety Place play a vital role in supporting people with disabilities,” Brkich said. “The renovation has ensured this building will meet the needs of clients both now and well into the future.”
“The participants, staff and Board of Variety Place Association Inc. wish to express our sincerest appreciation for the capital funding provided to this agency by the Government of Saskatchewan to renovate the day program building,” added Knapik. “Variety Place Association is dedicated to the participants we serve and this renovation is another example of what we can do together to ensure that people with disabilities in Saskatchewan are able to reach their full potential and enjoy fulfilled lives.”
The renovations in Outlook help support the Saskatchewan Disability Strategy, which was released in June 2015 and focuses on six priority areas, including transportation, respite, accessibility legislation, residential services, service coordination and navigation, and awareness/understanding of the rights of people with disabilities.
Those in attendance were welcome to tour the new facility and see for themselves the new additions that Variety Place participants will be enjoying for years to come. As well, a special ribbon-cutting ceremony was held with Brkich, Derdall and a number of participants, and guests were also invited to stay for refreshments such as celebratory cake.
With the new look and major upgrades for its participants and staff, Variety Place seems primed and ready to enter itself into a new era.
