LaFF Community Association Newsletter

Edition 5 | Summer 2022

The new gazebo at Aggie Hall is already a busy gathering place.

The programming offered by Ladysmith Family and Friends is taking on a brand new shape this summer, with the addition of a gazebo at the Nature Play Space above the parking lots at Aggie Hall.

The new 14’x14’ structure was built with funding provided through a Healthy Communities Grant awarded to LaFF, with Freeman Construction and the Town of Ladysmith partnering to complete the necessary work.

“This will add another safe space for people to gather year-round,” says Jacqueline Neligan, LaFF executive director. “We expect it will be very well utilized by program participants and the general community throughout the seasons.”

The gazebo, built to mirror another one at Transfer Beach, will be complemented with new garden beds for vegetables and herbs, all contributing to the community programming offered by LaFF, as well as creating another new gathering place for people.

The sheltered space will be particularly useful during the LaFF Outside program which meets in all types of weather.

“It will be excellent to have an outside space that can be used even when the weather isn’t great or to provide a cooler, shady spot when the sun is blazing,” says Neligan.

“It’s going to be a pretty popular place both during LaFF programming and otherwise.”

Did you know?

You can drop off healthy packaged pantry items, fresh food or produce, gently used clothes and books for LaFF’s free pantry and clothing exchange during program hours Tues-Thurs, 9:30-noon. Donations of fresh herbs are also welcome for use in LaFF’s food programming. Or make a donation online at www.familyandfriends.ca.

New LaFF Board
LaFF’s new board of directors was elected at the organization’s May 18th AGM. From left: Nicole J, July W, Nicole S, Dorothy D, Pat C, Dianne F, Kelsey D, Amanda B

“Call to action’ seeking feedback

In it’s ongoing efforts to best serve the community, Ladysmith Family and Friends is looking for public input.

LaFF is issuing a ‘call to action’ for people to share feedback on programs and services, looking for ideas on what’s working to suit their needs, what’s not working, what worked in the past, or what they’d like to see more of in the future.

The goal is to build on existing strengths and fill in any gaps to support children, families and community to thrive.

Part of LaFF’s future definitely includes increased attention on land-based learning, and the addition of another part-time facilitator.

Summer programs focus on outside fun

Full slate of services planned to keep people connected and healthy throughout the year

Summer is best spent outside and LaFF’s programs are keeping the focus on the outdoors.

LaFF Outside continues at the Nature Play Space at Aggie Hall throughout July and Aug, Tuesday through Thursday.

Summer programs will make extensive use of the new gazebo, built this spring at the Nature Play Space at Aggie Hall.

Drive-through access is also available for programs such as the free pantry, clothing exchange, lending library and more.

LaFFternoon programming is going exceptionally well, after returning in April. Offered Wednesdays from 12:15-1:45 p.m., the program is designed as a stepping stone for families expecting a baby or with a child up to one year old.

“It’s a great chance for new parents/ caregivers or expecting parents to meet with their peers and share information,” says Jacqueline Neligan, LaFF executive director. “It’s wonderful to see so many new connections being made.”

LaFFternoons will continue on Wednesdays throughout the summer.

Looking ahead to September, LaFF plans to relaunch its SEWcial program for the first time since the Covid pandemic began. The program provides an opportunity for adults to connect while working on a craft of their choice brought from home, or to help create and contribute to LaFF’s winter project.

“It’s coming back by popular demand,” says Neligan. “It’s a really wonderful chance to just come and connect without the littles. We’re really excited about bringing it back and we know others are too.”

The emphasis is on connection and mindfulness, and also provides participants the opportunity to share their hobbies or crafting passions, by teaching others how to do it.

“If you’ve wanted to share your love of sewing or teach someone how to bake or make perogies or whatever your interest is, this would be that chance,” says Neligan .

LaFF program facilitator Inga Anderson offers both a bubbly personality as well as bubbly entertainment during LaFF Outside

Donate today

Ladysmith Family and Friends Society (LaFF) is a non-profit society created in 1995 and run by a volunteer board of directors. Our programs seek to reduce isolation many parents and caregivers feel, provide opportunities for children to socialize, and to build community.