Beach Builders Home Hardware donates $35,000 to twin-pad arena and library project

The Town of Wasaga Beach is pleased to announce that Beach Builders Home Hardware has donated $35,000 to the town’s twin-pad arena and library fundraising campaign.

“On behalf of council, I thank Beach Builders Home Hardware for its continued support of our community and in particular the twin-pad arena and library project. This very generous donation is greatly appreciated,” Mayor Nina Bifolchi said.

In recognition of the company’s contribution, a change room in the new building will carry the Beach Builders Home Hardware name, as will the facility’s accessible elevator. 

Todd Young, speaking on behalf of business partner Jamie Vanderburg, said the two families have deep ties to the community, especially when it comes to recreation. As a result, he said, they are proud to be part of the twin-pad arena and library project.   

“Our fathers were part of the group of community leaders that created awareness and fundraised for the Wasaga Stars Arena (in the early 1970s),” Young said. “They worked together as part of the grassroots committee to bring the rink and minor hockey to the beach.”

Young noted that he and Vanderburg grew up playing minor hockey here in the 1970s and 1980s.

“Our wives enjoyed figure skating (here) and the same folks that taught all of us to skate have in turn taught our sons to skate at the Wasaga Stars,” Young said, adding their families have marked many celebrations at the arena, including dances and fundraising events.

As community leaders, the families have advocated for a new facility to meet the needs of a growing community.

“Our families are vested in the growth and development of the community that we have called home since the 1960s. As business owners and community-minded leaders, we want to give back to the community that has helped to grow and support our family business for over 50 years. We wish to grow together and ensure the building blocks are in place for all ages. Organized sports and access to a community library are fundamental in the support, growth and development of seniors, youth and families alike,” Young said.

Learn more about donation opportunities to the twin-pad arena and library project by visiting our website.

Project background information

In January 2019, town council identified the twin-pad arena and library project as a priority for this term. The Wasaga Stars Arena, built nearly 50 years ago, is at the end of its lifespan. The library, which opened in 1994, is too small to meet the needs of our growing community. A review, including a community consultation process, determined 544 River Rd. W. as the best site for a new 117,669-square-foot joint-use facility. When the new complex opens in the summer of 2023, it will include two NHL-size ice surfaces, an indoor walking track, a modern library with proper program space and meeting rooms. The town is funding the $59-million investment through reserves, long-term financing, and community donations.