By Bruce Corcoran
Chatham’s Active Lifestyle Centre is in full auction mode.
From now until Nov. 1, the ALC has 125 auction items up online to be won.
Linda Lucas, executive director of the ALC, said the event is the centre’s big fall fundraiser this year.
She said participation is simple.
“Go to the website (https://activelifestylecentre.org/) and follow the online auction instructions,” she said.
Participants will receive an e-mail if someone out-bids them, and winners on Nov. 1 will also be notified via e-mail of what they’ve won.
Lucas said all items for the auction were donated.
“It’s just great. That means everything will go back to the programs at the centre,” she said. “There are gas cards, gift cards, Fergie Jenkins memorabilia, bicycles, sewing machines, a golf package and more.”
While the auction items can be seen online, if someone wants to see them firsthand, you can come to the ALC. You’ll have to mask up and respect social distancing guidelines, however.
Lucas said COVID-19 has been a difficult challenge for the ALC. The centre closed for a time to protect its aged 50 and up members, and is operating with a greatly reduced membership base, offering fewer services and classes.
“We have programs, but it is very limited. All are social distanced with limited participation,” she said. “There are no more than 50 people allowed in the building at one time.”
There are some exercise, drumming, conversation, cardio, yoga, belly dancing and line dancing classes underway.
Lucas said take-out Thursdays are popular.
“People put in a food order and pick it up for $12. We run a meal every week,” she said.
Plans are in the works for a dessert tray fundraiser, where the ALC kitchen prepares trays of desserts and the public can purchase them.
“We’re asking local businesses to consider purchasing them for their staff or clients,” Lucas said.
As well, the ALC is offering two new services, with a hair stylist and an esthetician on site.
“You can support the centre by getting a haircut or getting your nails done,” she said as the services are offered to members and the public.
The ALC also offers foot care for anyone in the community, not just members.
Speaking of members, numbers are down from 1,073 last year at this time to 434 at the moment.
“The revenue from the membership alone, never mind the daily user fees, it’s been tight,” Lucas said. “Without the support of the community, it would be very scary.”
She urged the public to take part in the auction and consider donating as well.
For anyone with questions, you can visit the website or call 519-352-5633.
