Idea acf1296:

Wally Elmer Neighbourhood Centre

Posted October 15, 2009

• Posted by: GGuindon
• Organization: Rotary Club of Cataraqui-Kingston
• Location: Daly & MacCauley Street, Kingston, ON
• Category: Promote Well-being
• Cost: Medium ($10,000 – $50,000)

My Rotary Club, The Rotary Club of Cataraqui-Kingston has made a long term commitment to the Wally Elmer Neighbourhood Centre where we support various community partners offering services at the Wally Elmer Arena including literacy summer camps, children’s lending library, early childhood fitness, family activities, safety and home preparedness, etc. We are planning the of construction of a kitchen at the Centre for a meals program that would cost between $50,000-$75,000. The meals would include food grown in the Community Centre's new garden at the Centre and would be helpful in teaching healthy food choices for children, youth, their parents and seniors in a lower income neighbourhood. The Wally Elmer Neighbourhood Centre is a gathering place for people of all ages that offer programs including many drop-in activities. Current programs being offered include: BETTER BEGINNINGS PLAYGROUP -For Children offering a drop-in play group for families with children under the age of 5 each Friday and Activities include craft, theme play, and healthy snacks. EXTREME PUPPETS -Where Youth be part of building a World Record PUPPET and learn about Innovative materials and international styles of puppetry. Each Monday for youth, 6-14 yr
GIRLS INC. PROGRAM - Where girls in grades 4 to 8 are welcome to participate in fun and interactive activities after school. They include such activities as dance, martial arts, sports, crafts and others. UPGRADING PROGRAM- For Seniors and Parents to upgrade their reading, writing, math and computer skills. Childcare provided in high quality children's program in the same building at the same time, but you don't need kids with you to come.

• 

  Wally Elmer Neighbourhood Centre
  
  November 18, 2009 @ 4:39 PM

  
  

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• ecohoe

  This is an amazing program that not only supports people of all ages as individuals, but also strengthens the community in which it has been established!
  October 15, 2009 @ 2:58 PM EST

  
  

• Bob

  This is long overdue in North end Kingston.
  October 15, 2009 @ 3:26 PM EST

  
  

• Alex

  Lets go Kingston! VOTE VOTE VOTE This is an awesome idea! Lets make it happen
  October 15, 2009 @ 3:32 PM EST

  
  

• Brad

  Everyone should vote. What a great cause!!
  October 15, 2009 @ 4:22 PM EST

  
  

• nicki

  Fantastic Idea!
  October 16, 2009 @ 9:09 AM EST

  
  

• Tracy H

  The Wally Elmer is becoming an amazing community support. There are a number of programs and many more to come to support this community of unprivldged children and families. The building is transforming from a ice pad to a multi-use facility offering programs to children, families and seniors. With the support of Cataraqui Kingston Rotary, the Kingston Community and new funders we can make dreams come true in this neighborhood.
  October 16, 2009 @ 10:23 PM EST

  
  

• sandyatwally

  This project has great potential to positively affect hundreds of families who are struggling to raise their children and provide a healthy environment with ample, healthy food choices, activities to keep them fit and engaged, special programs to address challenges with literacy and well being. Helping to provide a meals program at the Wally Elmer is one very positive step in the development of this community.
  October 18, 2009 @ 9:00 AM EST

  
  

• Doug

  If it is to be....then it is up to us. Vote often and make this happen!
  October 18, 2009 @ 5:04 PM EST

  
  

• Mark Fluhrer

  Born in the community, by the community for the community - the power of community ....amazing!
  October 18, 2009 @ 9:39 PM EST

  
  

• Terry

  Get er done! The Wally is a great community project that can grow with the community for years to come. With continued support from everyone this place can foster some long term initiatives and be a source of pride for the whole neighborhood!
  October 18, 2009 @ 9:40 PM EST

  
  

• OrleansClub

  Great initiative, count with all our votes! This a great community project!
  October 21, 2009 @ 2:11 PM EST

  
  

• sandyatwally

  Glenda did a great job on our local TV news!!! Thanks to all who are helping to vote for the Wally Elmer! Thanks Orleans Rotary and all other Rotarians across the district!! Please continue to vote each day!
  October 21, 2009 @ 7:00 PM EST

  
  

• Storm

  This is long overdue for any part of Kingston. Hope the city gets behind this better than they have for things in the past like Bring KISS to Kingston and Hockeyville competitions. Come on Kingston let Get 'er Dun Vote, Vote, Vote and tell all your friends :)
  October 21, 2009 @ 11:34 PM EST

  
  

• keith

  C'mon Rotarians ... we are a proud partner of the Wally, and need to support this project. Mark this as your home page, and vote daily. ... this truly is "The easiest way to raise 50K".
  October 22, 2009 @ 12:33 PM EST

  
  

• Victoria

  Awesome Idea! VOTE VOTE VOTE
  October 26, 2009 @ 3:44 PM EST

  
  

• Gar

  Fantastic opportunity for Kingston's northend. Applause to Cataraqui Rotary Club!
  October 26, 2009 @ 7:03 PM EST

  
  

• jan

  Have a fund raiser bake sale. People donate the baking & then auction it off. It is a real fun time. Jan
  October 26, 2009 @ 9:55 PM EST

  
  

• Squeeze

  The Wally is the heart of its community.
  October 30, 2009 @ 1:47 PM EST

  
  

• Lance

  The Wally is one of the best examples of a solid and sustainable community development initiative that I have had the pleasure of being associated with over my many years of municipal work. A community kitchen will be of huge beenfit to the residents of the neighbourhood and the vitality of the Wally as a community hub.
  October 30, 2009 @ 2:02 PM EST

  
  

• wilky

  I am proud to be part of the Wally Team. I grew up in this area in the 50s & 60s when we had outdoor rinks and activity huts right here where Wally now stands. Our kids played hockey here and now to see an organization willing to give kids a place to grow, learn, and remember great times makes me happy to know someone actually cares.t.y. Rotary Club and Aviva. I pray we win
  October 30, 2009 @ 6:41 PM EST

  
  

• Doreen

  Exceptional Project - worthy of a win! This project makes a difference in the lives of families in the North end of Kingston.
  November 1, 2009 @ 1:39 PM EST

  
  

• robo

  I've spend many a day watching my son play hockey at Wally, best french fries in town too! A wonderful and worthy community project.
  November 2, 2009 @ 8:19 AM EST

  
  

• patsy

  It's the gift that gives! Break the cycle and build a community you'll be proud to raise your grandkids in. And did someone say French Fries?!
  November 2, 2009 @ 6:16 PM EST

  
  

• lkimble

  I am very proud to be associated with the Wally Elmer Neighourhood Centre. This is a very deserving community with great kids! This kitchen and the potential programs we will build around it, will make the world of difference to many families in the area. Thanks Rotary Cataraqui, for your unwavering support of the Wally.
  November 2, 2009 @ 8:15 PM EST

  
  

• TGargaro

  This Community Centre is the hub and future of this community. Over 1500 children and youth live within a 6 block radius of this centre, children and youth that need positives in their life. A revitalized Wally is the start of those positives!!
  November 3, 2009 @ 12:38 PM EST

  
  

• Helen

  This is an amazing community project !!! 1500 kids live within a six block radius and this centre brings life to this neighbourhood
  November 3, 2009 @ 5:06 PM EST

  
  

• BAD

  This is a very worthwhile project. I spent many, many hours at the Wally when my children were young, & it should be maintained & improved. Barb.
  November 5, 2009 @ 9:36 AM EST

  
  

• severingham

  The power of community coming together :) Is so proud to support this project!
  November 6, 2009 @ 8:23 AM EST

  
  

• claraagnes

  Myt neighbourhood needs this Wally kitchen . This is amazing community space - so much good can happen here!
  November 6, 2009 @ 7:00 PM EST

  
  

• HollieFisher

  I love this idea. I grew up near here and I choose to also live near here with my children growing up near here. And we need this KITCHEN!!!
  November 8, 2009 @ 12:35 AM EST

  
  

• Joe

  What a wonderful project taken on by a GREAT Rotary Club Joe, Oshawa Ontario
  November 11, 2009 @ 9:12 AM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  This is GREAT idea !!! We can DO it !!! VOTE !!! VOTE !! VOTE !!!
  November 11, 2009 @ 9:26 AM EST

  
  

• Grandfather

  A safe secure and fun place for our kids. Good people Good groups Good business Doing great work for all kids.
  November 12, 2009 @ 8:53 PM EST

  
  

• Grandfather

  A safe secure and fun place for our kids. Good people Good groups Good business Doing great work for all kids.
  November 12, 2009 @ 8:53 PM EST

  
  

• Grandfather

  A safe secure and fun place for our kids. Good people Good groups Good business Doing great work for all kids.
  November 12, 2009 @ 8:53 PM EST

  
  

• Bradley

  This project is important to the success of this community. I am proud to help out when I can. I look forward to cooking in the new Wally Elmer kitchen!!! Please vote each day!
  November 16, 2009 @ 7:59 AM EST

  
  

• ken

  Great project for Kingston!
  November 16, 2009 @ 10:41 AM EST

  
  

• William

  The Wally Elmer Neigbourhood Centre is just the greatest idea. And this project will help this community out greatly. Get voting Kingston! Make it happen.
  November 16, 2009 @ 11:39 AM EST

  
  

• Helen

  We may be in round 3, but we are not out of the race yet, don't give up, keep casting your votes
  November 16, 2009 @ 2:00 PM EST

  
  

• Basha

  Basha Proud to support and Vote make it happen
  November 16, 2009 @ 9:07 PM EST

  
  

• wcaresii

  All for making the community about the people who make the community!
  November 16, 2009 @ 10:20 PM EST

  
  

• b_rex99

  The kids need a kitchen. The community needs the Wally!
  November 17, 2009 @ 6:46 AM EST

  
  

• golfer

  Terrific project that will support a lot of kids.
  November 17, 2009 @ 7:02 AM EST

  
  

• KKPC

  A very good cause to support the children in our neighborhood. Keep up the good work!
  November 17, 2009 @ 7:09 AM EST

  
  

• sharon

  The Wally Elmer is an amazing project where ordinary people can make an extraordinary impact on another person's life. We need to support this worthy project and support the families of Kingston.
  November 17, 2009 @ 7:48 AM EST

  
  

• Nancy

  This is a tremendous project and much needed for this community. Please continue to support.
  November 17, 2009 @ 8:03 AM EST

  
  

• sandra

  The Wally Elmer has so many wonderful, enthused and energetic groups to help support the community. The kitchen project is a great example of everyone coming together to help this community. Please support the Wally Elmer!
  November 17, 2009 @ 8:15 AM EST

  
  

• holly

  We love the Wally Elmer! We grew up here and this project is very important!
  November 17, 2009 @ 9:55 AM EST

  
  

• Gary

  The Wally is a great grass-roots project ... an example of community consultation resulting in an excellent community facility that meets the needs of this neighbourhood. This project will continue to build this into a trus community facility.
  November 17, 2009 @ 11:00 AM EST

  
  

• Sally

  This is a very worthwhile project and should be supported
  November 17, 2009 @ 11:30 AM EST

  
  

• RogerH

  The Wally is a perfect example of a grass-roots community project that will succeed. Everyone in Kingston should support this.
  November 17, 2009 @ 3:06 PM EST

  
  

• skot

  I worked for 10 years at the public school across the street from The Wally. I saw how the kids I worked with were given opportunities there for important community connections and enriching after-school experiences. This is a perfect fit !
  November 17, 2009 @ 9:22 PM EST

  
  

• skot

  I worked for 10 years at the public school across the street from The Wally. I saw how the kids I worked with were given opportunities there for important community connections and enriching after-school experiences. This is a perfect fit !
  November 17, 2009 @ 9:22 PM EST

  
  

• JLM2

  Everyone's support is wonderful! The Wally is a special place for so many. Keep voting!! This organisation is deserving!
  November 18, 2009 @ 8:18 AM EST

  
  

• sarah

  The Wally gets more and more supporters. Way to Go my friends!!! Each VOTE metters!!! We can DO it!!!
  November 18, 2009 @ 8:23 AM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  Kingston!!! Support the Walley!!! VOTE!!! VOTE!!! VOTE!!!
  November 18, 2009 @ 8:34 AM EST

  
  

• Caroline

  I'm so proud and impressed with all the energy! Way to go!!!
  November 18, 2009 @ 8:34 AM EST

  
  

• Geoff

  I encourage you to support the Walley Elmer kitchen project. The kitchen will be more than a place to cook. It will be a place where the people of north Kingston can come together as a community, learn about healthy food choices and use the food they will grow in the Walley's garden. This is such an important project!
  November 18, 2009 @ 8:38 AM EST

  
  

• ken

  This is great for the community health!
  November 18, 2009 @ 8:39 AM EST

  
  

• Bella

  Really pleased to see the great support for this project! This will really help to strengthen the community in body and spirit!
  November 18, 2009 @ 8:41 AM EST

  
  

• malocohoe

  This is a great project, and will really strengthen the community and the families there. It really deserves the award.
  November 18, 2009 @ 8:50 AM EST

  
  

• elizabeth

  There is nothing like good nutrition and knowledge of how to provide this. It leads to good health, and child development, which in the long run gives everyone a better chance of success in all areas of life.
  November 18, 2009 @ 8:55 AM EST

  
  

• Spike

  Please keep supporting the work done at the Wally Elmer Neighbourhood Centre. Thanks AVIVA for the opportunity to tell everyone about the great things that are happening in our community.
  November 18, 2009 @ 9:40 AM EST

  
  

• Pita

  Support for this Wally project is growing stronger, cheers are getting louder. Keep it up, Team! Winning this Aviva prize will bring more opportunity for the Wally Elmer Centre to serve this Kingston Community. Installation of the kitchen will result in further development of the Centre and its programs. The kitchen will be an investment by Aviva's Community Fund that will pay social dividends for years to come.
  November 18, 2009 @ 11:34 AM EST

  
  

• Doreen

  Pleased to support this worthwhile project and the potential for sustainable community evolvement.
  November 18, 2009 @ 2:06 PM EST

  
  

• irene

  Excellent idea! Wish everybody to sign to it!
  November 18, 2009 @ 2:23 PM EST

  
  

• Rebella

  What an amazing opportunity made available to so many families! Super!
  November 18, 2009 @ 2:31 PM EST

  
  

• gguindon

  Welcome new voters from Kingston! Thank you for checking out this web site. We hope to get more support from the Kingston Community. This is round three of the competition. You can vote once each day and the more votes the better. If we are in the top 20 by the end of this round we will be in the Semi-finals. Please help this happen as we need everyones help to get this kitchen at the Wally Elmer Neighbourhood Centre built and then later volunteers to help cook, supply foods and teach healthy food choice lessons. Please help to make this community project a success!
  November 18, 2009 @ 4:05 PM EST

  
  

• Kiara

  It's been great working with the Wally Elmer projects and I hope it wins the $50 000!
  November 18, 2009 @ 4:43 PM EST

  
  

• patsy

  Congratulations on making it to round three! Third time's a charm, I say! What if that one grilled cheese sandwich a kid ate for lunch was the only thing he was looking forward to today? What if his sister could learn to cook and turned that passion into a college education. What if she became a hard-working, taxpayer and raised a good family? I wonder what that family would grow into. ........
  November 18, 2009 @ 4:43 PM EST

  
  

• Rebecca B

  I am so excited about all of the positive changes and wonderful programs that have been implementing at the Wally for the community. I work in this community with an Intergenerational group and the addition of a kitchen would allow us to provide children with cooking programs that would be so valuable for the children in this community and their families. This addition would provide this community with a service which has the potential to change lives. There are endless opportunities here and I really hope that this one becomes a reality!
  November 18, 2009 @ 5:16 PM EST

  
  

• Brenda

  I am so pleased to see so much support for this great idea. I am a parent of three children and a program like this will be so valuable and appreciated by the entire community.
  November 18, 2009 @ 5:23 PM EST

  
  

• irene

  Sure, this idea should be supported by the majority of the Community!Cause it's so important to have an opportunity to help the youth-our future- in getting appropriate education; to help our elferly people - they are our pride and memory - and to help those who really need it-for them not to lose hope! You are still hesitating& Come on! VOTE!
  November 19, 2009 @ 6:18 AM EST

  
  

• ecohoe

  I really hope that this project will make it to the finals, because it is so worthwhile, and needs the support. It helps every generation in the north end of the city.
  November 19, 2009 @ 7:44 AM EST

  
  

• Jen

  This program has so much potential and will be so great. I can't wait until this goal is reached! I know we can do it and the community deserves it.
  November 19, 2009 @ 8:43 AM EST

  
  

• Heather

  Great idea - this will do so much for this community!
  November 19, 2009 @ 8:44 AM EST

  
  

• karenl

  Even with a bad kitchen the vison of what The Wally could be was born . First we dream it then we live it. So many of the programs provide food for families who need it . Isn't the kitchen, most often, the heart of every home. Lets vote to create our dream kitchen so that many may benefit from this amazing community space. It is such a gift!!!!
  November 19, 2009 @ 9:04 AM EST

  
  

• jenna

  I am happy to support this idea!
  November 19, 2009 @ 9:27 AM EST

  
  

• jenna

  I am happy to support this idea!
  November 19, 2009 @ 9:27 AM EST

  
  

• jenna

  I am happy to support this idea!
  November 19, 2009 @ 9:27 AM EST

  
  

• jenna

  I am happy to support this idea!
  November 19, 2009 @ 9:28 AM EST

  
  

• Rebella

  Go Wally! Go Wally! Go Wally!
  November 19, 2009 @ 9:36 AM EST

  
  

• sandyatwally

  The Wally Elmer is an inspiring project. The kitchen will be a great addition to the fantastic work that is already going on at The Wally. Thanks to everyone who is voting! Please vote vote vote! Thanks to Aviva for this opportunity to help children and entire families today, and for many years to come!
  November 19, 2009 @ 11:07 AM EST

  
  

• janetkelman

  What a great idea and long overdue. vote vote vote
  November 19, 2009 @ 11:17 AM EST

  
  

• mukmoo

  Long live The Wally Ann-Marie Lawson
  November 19, 2009 @ 4:03 PM EST

  
  

• Food Matters

  Everyone wins with Wally! Cast your votes EVERY day!!!
  November 19, 2009 @ 4:12 PM EST

  
  

• patsy

  To Brenda: You are one of the best reasons I can think of to to just DO this project. The Wally has such a future in its people and its families. Jenna, if you're happy, I'm happy! Thanks for this fantastic support.
  November 19, 2009 @ 7:21 PM EST

  
  

• jallen

  Excellent idea!
  November 19, 2009 @ 8:34 PM EST

  
  

• sarah

  Support ! Support! Support! Vote dayly!
  November 20, 2009 @ 5:43 AM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  I agree with sandyatwally, "The kitchen will be a great addition to the fantastic work that is already going on at The Wally". And alltogether we can make it to come true!
  November 20, 2009 @ 5:52 AM EST

  
  

• Anne

  Children are the future of a society. By helping children develop into healthy adults, we are making a very solid investment in our future. This is an investment that can have a multiplier effect in terms of its short, mid and long-term benefits. The whole Kingston community should come out and vote for the Wally Elmer Center. Thumbs up to AVIVA for this creative fundraising initiative which is a win-win for all involved and allow community spirit to rally behind a project. If you are reading this note, likely you have voted already. Now, you need to spread the good news and get your friends to vote as well.
  November 20, 2009 @ 7:05 AM EST

  
  

• Bella

  this is such a worthwhile project - please lend your support by voting!
  November 20, 2009 @ 8:23 AM EST

  
  

• macampbell

  Finally a project that puts back into the community to support kids that have no one really interested in them in the past. A great project, a great idea and well worth the corporate support being asked for!
  November 20, 2009 @ 8:58 AM EST

  
  

• dgs

  The Wally Dome lives on! Great to see it entering a new, exciting phase of its life through the efforts of a broad, grassroots community.
  November 20, 2009 @ 9:06 AM EST

  
  

• malocohoe

  What an exciting possibility...that we could provide a kitchen at this community centre! Don't forget to vote!
  November 20, 2009 @ 9:42 AM EST

  
  

• Food Matters

  Community Gardens with a nearby teaching kitchen - what more could you ask for to promote the consumption of nutritious veggies in our communities diet. Vote! Vote! Vote!
  November 20, 2009 @ 10:25 AM EST

  
  

• Claire

  Support your community, this is a great project with so much potential.
  November 20, 2009 @ 10:29 AM EST

  
  

• Food Matters

  I have to agree... this is a great project, a great idea and well worth the support of the entire city! This project does have the potential to change lives is such a positive way. Your votes are sooo important. Be sure to come back every day and remind your friends to vote as well.
  November 20, 2009 @ 10:36 AM EST

  
  

• Anne

  I work with many of the families in north Kingston. We teach health , food and nutrition as part of our family literacy classes ( amongst other things). It would be so fantastic to have a kitchen to demonstrate healthy meal preparation and menu planning on a budget, not to mention parenting skills linked to communicating around a table at meal times.We currently like to offer healthy snacks for our parents and children but have to prepare everything at home before we arrive at the Wally Elmer because the kitchen simply is not good enough to risk children's health and safety. This restricts the scope of our program. One other point is that we have to use disposable cutlery and dishes for health and safety reasons which is not environmentally friendly.
  November 20, 2009 @ 11:07 AM EST

  
  

• V.Murray

  The staff and families from Oakwood Preschool Centre, also in Wally's neighborhood; appreciate the great programs available for children and adults. The Wally is a real hub of activity; any new addtions will be well used and appreciated.
  November 20, 2009 @ 11:12 AM EST

  
  

• ken

  can't wait to taste the harvest!
  November 20, 2009 @ 11:42 AM EST

  
  

• Chris

  The gameface afterschool drop in could really make use of the kitchen. We do some basic cooking from time to time but a couple of hot plates and a toaster oven is a poor subsitute for a fully functional kitchen. If this kitchen happends we can replace pizza nights with a gameface cooking club. Vote Vote Vote!
  November 20, 2009 @ 3:50 PM EST

  
  

• patsy

  Neil Armstrong walked on the moon and made Walter Cronkite cry on the air. The Berlin Wall came down and a world cried with joy and disbelief. A kitchen? Piece of cake! Let's do it.
  November 20, 2009 @ 5:29 PM EST

  
  

• holly

  I'm so excited by the support for this important project! Like Patsy said, Its a piece of cake'! We can do this--please tell your friends---We have 8 more days to help thousands of 2000 kids be healthier, improve learning and improve thier lives today and tomorrow.
  November 21, 2009 @ 7:12 AM EST

  
  

• sandra

  Lovin' this project! The kids benefit and so does our entire community! Im happy to see the Gameface after school program mentioned. So many great things going on at the Wally Elmer!! We need this kitchen to help the kids and thier families!!! Vote Vote Vote please!
  November 21, 2009 @ 7:41 AM EST

  
  

• elizabeth

  It's amazing what can be accomplished when we work together. That is how the Wally got off the ground in the first place. Let's do it again right here!
  November 21, 2009 @ 7:59 AM EST

  
  

• irene

  Don't lose momentum! Come on! Vote for this project! If not we, then who?!
  November 21, 2009 @ 8:57 AM EST

  
  

• Bella

  What a great project - keep voting!
  November 21, 2009 @ 9:24 AM EST

  
  

• Heather

  this project is really community driven, and will benefit so many!
  November 21, 2009 @ 9:27 AM EST

  
  

• Tracy H

  What an amazing opportunity for such a diverse community. This centre could and will benefit all sectors in the community. They have only just begun and with the support of Aviva even more is possible.
  November 21, 2009 @ 3:11 PM EST

  
  

• GC

  This is such a worthwhile project. So many of us take our kitchens for granted. They are the hearts of our homes. Let's all help make Wally's kitchen the heart of north Kingston's community. Voting for Wally is the best!
  November 21, 2009 @ 8:07 PM EST

  
  

• Heather

  This is such a wonderful project for people to help each other - a great way to give back their own community!
  November 22, 2009 @ 9:30 AM EST

  
  

• Bella

  Great to see the support that this project is getting - it is truly a community effort!
  November 22, 2009 @ 9:32 AM EST

  
  

• irene

  Vote,please! And invite Your frinds to support this excellent idea!
  November 22, 2009 @ 10:16 AM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  We are only a week away. Your vote matters! Please, support and vote !!!!
  November 22, 2009 @ 9:02 PM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  I can't wait to seethis project to come true.
  November 22, 2009 @ 9:04 PM EST

  
  

• Caroline

  The potential with a new kitchen is limitless! Keep voting!
  November 23, 2009 @ 7:17 AM EST

  
  

• Food Matters

  Take a look around you and what do you see... A busy, active and engaged community is a healthy community. Wally offers the opportunity for everyone in this community to be engaged in a variety of activities and programs that keep them learning and having fun at the same time. Can you think of anything more worthwhile than that? I can't!!! Keep voting - let's try to reach 1,000 votes by the end of today.
  November 23, 2009 @ 8:57 AM EST

  
  

• irene

  VOTE! Don't be indifferent! Namely INDIFFERENCE is the reason of all the evil deads happening on the Earth! You're not indifferent?! Then, VOTE!!!
  November 23, 2009 @ 10:10 AM EST

  
  

• Rebella

  Super Community Spirit! So great to see!
  November 23, 2009 @ 10:47 AM EST

  
  

• Claire

  The most direct route to learning about healthy eating is through hands on involvement in a new kitchen.
  November 23, 2009 @ 3:17 PM EST

  
  

• b_rex99

  This kitchen is one of many great things going on at the Wally and helping thousands of kids in the area. I can't wait to see this kitchen become reality. I know that we can help to make this happen! Ive voting each day and so are my family members!
  November 23, 2009 @ 7:42 PM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  Every day when I am voting I have a great feeling of satisfaction. What a wonderful thing to do - to help community by the click of your mouse.
  November 23, 2009 @ 9:13 PM EST

  
  

• sarah

  I am glad to be a part of this supportive group.
  November 23, 2009 @ 9:18 PM EST

  
  

• Alice Gaze

  What an opportunity!!
  November 23, 2009 @ 10:52 PM EST

  
  

• sandyatwally

  1000 votes!!! I know we can do this! We all know the magnitude of this project to this community so lets encourage our friends to vote for the Wally kitchen until Sunday. See you for lunch at the NEW Wally kitchen!!!!!!!
  November 24, 2009 @ 7:00 AM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  Way to GO! my friends!!!
  November 24, 2009 @ 8:10 AM EST

  
  

• sarah

  WOW !!!! we've got a thousend votes!!!!
  November 24, 2009 @ 8:17 AM EST

  
  

• elizabeth

  Keep on truckin' guys, we need lots of comments too in support of this wonderful project.
  November 24, 2009 @ 9:57 AM EST

  
  

• chris

  Can not wait to see this project in Kingston. Get out and vote
  November 24, 2009 @ 10:03 AM EST

  
  

• Bella

  Let's make this happen - it's a great project for a great neighbourhood!
  November 24, 2009 @ 10:13 AM EST

  
  

• Heather

  Great to see the support this is getting - keep it up!
  November 24, 2009 @ 10:14 AM EST

  
  

• ken

  what's cookin!?
  November 24, 2009 @ 3:59 PM EST

  
  

• Bella

  C'mon, Kingston! Let's get this off the ground!
  November 25, 2009 @ 8:00 AM EST

  
  

• Heather

  This community kitchen will do so much for people of all ages in the neighbourhood. Good for the body, and good for the soul!
  November 25, 2009 @ 8:04 AM EST

  
  

• sarah

  We are almost there!!!
  November 25, 2009 @ 9:18 AM EST

  
  

• gguindon

  Thank you Kingston for voting for this idea! Keep voting everyday and be sure to make a comment...hopefully someone is listening. This kitchen will be an excellent addition to a wonderful program for the Wally Elmer Neighbourhood Community
  November 25, 2009 @ 9:18 AM EST

  
  

• sandra

  I can't wait to see this project come to fruition! It will positively impact so many families! Thanks to Aviva for this opportunity! Thanks to Rotarian Glenda for bringing this opportunity to our attention! THANKS KINGSTONIANS for voting to make this happen! AND please continue to vote until Sunday midnight and ask your friends to vote too!
  November 25, 2009 @ 9:22 AM EST

  
  

• Gary

  Thanks Aviva! This is a great oppportunity for our community.
  November 25, 2009 @ 9:46 AM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  Thank you to everyone who is voting regularly!
  November 25, 2009 @ 11:52 AM EST

  
  

• Marian

  Supporting community-centred activities helps the local community and the larger community within Kingston. Excellent initiatives at the Wally Elmer.
  November 25, 2009 @ 12:14 PM EST

  
  

• b_rex99

  Helping the community one meal at a time!
  November 26, 2009 @ 6:50 AM EST

  
  

• holly

  This is a fantastic project and I'm proud to support it.
  November 26, 2009 @ 6:51 AM EST

  
  

• Bradley

  So much great work is happening at the Wally Elmer and this kitchen will be at the heart of it.
  November 26, 2009 @ 6:54 AM EST

  
  

• sandyatwally

  I heard from another group who is anxious to continue thier good works at the new Wally Elmer Neighbourhood Ctre....the 4H Club wants to start a club at the Wally! 4H would be another valuable piece of the puzzle with the new kitchen project and the newly launched community gardens project. So many great things going on at the Wally Elmer! Thanks Aviva for helping to bring our hopes and dreams to life and changing lives along the way!
  November 26, 2009 @ 6:59 AM EST

  
  

• Pita

  It's not just a kitchen. The Wally Elmer facility is an education centre for kids and adults alike to learn more about how wonderful food can be, where it comes from, how it nurtures us, why the good stuff is so important to our total well-being, and how to get make good choices to get the most out of whatever bounty is available.
  November 26, 2009 @ 7:41 AM EST

  
  

• Bella

  Great to hear about the 4H Club's interest! This just shows how a great idea can spread!
  November 26, 2009 @ 7:47 AM EST

  
  

• Pita

  It's not just a kitchen. The Wally Elmer kitchen project is an exchange centre - where Aviva exchanges its investment in a better world for Kingston citizens' commitment - our commitment - to create a stronger community; where persons of all ages can exchange real needs for guidance and support from their community; where hunger of all sorts can be traded for a sense of care.
  November 26, 2009 @ 7:48 AM EST

  
  

• Heather

  Really looking forward to springtime in the garden! What a great way for everyone to come together as a community.
  November 26, 2009 @ 7:49 AM EST

  
  

• GC

  I know how thrilled the people of the north part of Kingston would be if all of us cast one more vote to bring this fabulous idea to reality. This is a season of giving and voting for this worth while is a tremendous gift.
  November 26, 2009 @ 8:30 AM EST

  
  

• malocohoe

  Is everyone promoting our idea on Facebook? Spreading the word will help us with this project that is so worthwhile for our community. Let's get it out there!
  November 26, 2009 @ 8:32 AM EST

  
  

• Geoff

  This is the time of year when we say so long to our gardens for a while and look forward to seeing green shoots in the spring. Voting for this fantastic project will bring us one step closer to the people at Wally being able to use their home grown veggies in their kitchen. Yes!!
  November 26, 2009 @ 8:34 AM EST

  
  

• Pita

  It's not just a kitchen. It's fun! It's beside a garden, supported by groups (4-H, Rotary, others), part of an active community centre, open to all, and all about citizens of our community. Three days to go in this 'round'... Here's to a kitchen party at the Wally!
  November 26, 2009 @ 8:50 AM EST

  
  

• sandra

  I like the idea of the Kitchen Party! See you there! Thanks Rotary for bringing this worthwhile project to my attention.
  November 26, 2009 @ 9:47 AM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  I can see kids faces that are having fun at the Kitchen party...
  November 26, 2009 @ 9:19 PM EST

  
  

• technutzzz

  I had the great opportunity to do some volunteer work at the Wally this past Summer - it was a fantastic day, and the kids were great. this project would be a great boost to the community and surrounding area. It would have a huge impact in assisting some individuals who may not be as fortunate as others. Go Wally Go. Ronald Carver
  November 27, 2009 @ 1:19 AM EST

  
  

• George

  I support Rita. For the Kitchen Purty!!!
  November 27, 2009 @ 8:54 AM EST

  
  

• sarah

  Two more days! Lets Do it! Lets DO it!!
  November 27, 2009 @ 8:58 AM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  Good Luck to the project! I hope we will make it.
  November 27, 2009 @ 9:03 AM EST

  
  

• Joe

  A wonderful and required project taken on by a great team.
  November 27, 2009 @ 9:24 AM EST

  
  

• Sarah

  terrific initiative ... fingers poised to vote as often as the system will permit!
  November 27, 2009 @ 10:17 AM EST

  
  

• irene

  It's never late to be useful to others! Vote!
  November 27, 2009 @ 11:04 AM EST

  
  

• elizabeth

  The new garden is a perfect combination for this kitchen. The Wally needs a kitchen!
  November 27, 2009 @ 12:43 PM EST

  
  

• ecohoe

  Only two days eleven hours and ten minutes left to make this great thing happen. So much could happen for our efforts.
  November 27, 2009 @ 12:45 PM EST

  
  

• Lesley

  A kitchen at the Wally will make a HUGE difference to what we can do, program and achieve there. Keep the vote coming everyone! And thanks to Cataraqui Rotary for thier support of this project.
  November 27, 2009 @ 4:32 PM EST

  
  

• b_rex99

  This project is helping countless families. Please continue to support this project! I know we can make it into the semi finals!
  November 28, 2009 @ 12:37 AM EST

  
  

• holly

  I love how this idea has inspired our entire community.
  November 28, 2009 @ 12:39 AM EST

  
  

• Sasha

  I believe in this project ! Do You?
  November 28, 2009 @ 7:08 AM EST

  
  

• George

  I DO believe in Walley!! One more day. Lets vote!
  November 28, 2009 @ 7:12 AM EST

  
  

• sarah

  VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!
  November 28, 2009 @ 7:16 AM EST

  
  

• sandyatwally

  Our community has embraced this project which will affect the lives of thousands of children who are involved in the many programs at the Wally Elmer. But the kitchen and meals program impacts the families of those kids too! This kitchen will help thousands of families to have access to healthier living. This kitchen will be a new focus of the programming choices available at the Wally Elmer. Your vote of support is already helping this community. Your vote shows your support and your passion for healthy living and food security.
  November 28, 2009 @ 7:58 AM EST

  
  

• Sarah

  Way to go for keeping this idea alive!
  November 28, 2009 @ 7:59 AM EST

  
  

• malocohoe

  Learning about good nutrition and actually being able to live it is the basis for so much in life. From life before birth, to early learning, and right to the end of life, this is an aspect of living that cannot be denied to anyone. It improves every aspect of the quality of life either directly or indirectly. The Wally kitchen will contribute so much to so many for years to come.
  November 28, 2009 @ 9:05 AM EST

  
  

• Anne

  Teaching children about health and nutrition helps them build solid foundations. A strong investment in the future of our community. Great initiative.
  November 28, 2009 @ 10:22 AM EST

  
  

• irene

  It's a good way not only to help people and kids know about healthy nutrition, it's also the way of bringing people of the community together joining with one good idea. And, maybe, new ideas will appear. And I'm sure they will! Let's work for the future of our community. It will develop us and our kids!
  November 28, 2009 @ 10:30 AM EST

  
  

• Heather

  Really getting excited to see the outcome of this. It's such a worthwhile project!
  November 28, 2009 @ 1:00 PM EST

  
  

• Bella

  Great to see all the buzz on this project! It really shows the cummunity commitment behind this!
  November 28, 2009 @ 1:01 PM EST

  
  

• Bill

  Excellent project.
  November 28, 2009 @ 4:56 PM EST

  
  

• sandyatwally

  This project has so much potential for building partnerships, providing good choices and improving lives.
  November 29, 2009 @ 7:20 AM EST

  
  

• Alpine

  I helped out with the community garden in the spring and loved the feeling of excitement from the kids who joined us to investigate what we were doing! They were excited about having garden beds for them to plant.
  November 29, 2009 @ 7:22 AM EST

  
  

• sandra

  I cant wait until the new Wally Elmer kitchen is up and running! I plan to participate in the cooking classes!
  November 29, 2009 @ 7:24 AM EST

  
  

• Bradley

  gotta love the Wally! I remember playing hockey there as a kid. This new focus and direction for the Wally is important. I plan to volunteer in the new kitchen...and I plan to skate at the Wally this winter! I think the ice goes in this week!
  November 29, 2009 @ 7:26 AM EST

  
  

• holly

  Hey, we're going to pass 1500 votes this morning! This is amazing! Go Wally Go !!! Vote Vote Vote
  November 29, 2009 @ 7:27 AM EST

  
  

• b_rex99

  Excellent project. It has my full support.
  November 29, 2009 @ 7:29 AM EST

  
  

• Gary

  Keep the votes coming!
  November 29, 2009 @ 8:09 AM EST

  
  

• Bella

  Growing, preparing, and sharing food is such a great way to build a community. Go Wally!
  November 29, 2009 @ 8:13 AM EST

  
  

• Heather

  Keep up the support - this will make such a difference to so many people!
  November 29, 2009 @ 8:15 AM EST

  
  

• JLM

  I am so proud of everyone! The Wally is an important place for so many! Keep up the comments and votes!
  November 29, 2009 @ 8:51 AM EST

  
  

• Sarah

  one last push ... I hope Wally wins!!! It will make such a difference to so many people...!
  November 29, 2009 @ 9:21 AM EST

  
  

• Pita

  How can I help with the kitchen once it is installed? The kitchen creates the home-like centre for the Wally Elmer - the warm, functional, nurturing, educational core that is always there to welcome community participants. With a kitchen, community members will have a sense that the 'kettle is always on' and know that sustenance for mind body and spirit can be found at the Wally Elmer. Would love to be directly involved with this amazing community centre.
  November 29, 2009 @ 11:29 AM EST

  
  

• Lesley

  Thanks to everyone for your support with this endeavour. This project has certainly rallied 'Friends of the Wally' in huge numbers! We hope you'll all continue your fantastic support as we move into 2010 and a very exciting phase of development for Wally Elmer.
  November 29, 2009 @ 11:46 AM EST

  
  

• ken

  Looking forward to cooking in the new kitchen, made possible by volunteers and AVIVA!
  November 29, 2009 @ 11:46 AM EST

  
  

• ken

  fresh food from the garden, and cooked locally!
  November 29, 2009 @ 12:13 PM EST

  
  

• elizabeth

  This is such a great project, and so worth supporting. It will help every generation and have an effect on the community it serves for many years to come! When you think about it, a kitchen is basic to life.
  November 29, 2009 @ 12:39 PM EST

  
  

• malocohoe

  Remember when the kitchen was where people met, and the center of the social life of the family and the community? In many parts it still is, and it will be especially true at the Wally Elmer Centre!
  November 29, 2009 @ 12:44 PM EST

  
  

• RKS-rotaract

  What a great project!
  November 29, 2009 @ 1:04 PM EST

  
  

• Bill

  Come on Kingston and vote! This project is just the greatest.
  November 29, 2009 @ 3:08 PM EST

  
  

• schumj

  What a fantastic project, and so desperately needed in the community. The construction of a kitchen has the potential to benefit and assist so many people that are in need. Great cause! I'm inspired by what you do!
  November 29, 2009 @ 3:38 PM EST

  
  

• ken

  keep cookin!
  November 29, 2009 @ 5:25 PM EST

  
  

• gaye

  The Wally Elmer Centre is a great community facility. The Wally was cited for closure by the city and kept open by the efforts of the people in the local community. Having a community kitchen will help meet the nutritional needs of many and continue to foster good will and fellowship.
  November 29, 2009 @ 7:40 PM EST

  
  

• sandyatwally

  Thanks for a superb effort everyone!
  November 29, 2009 @ 11:59 PM EST