Estevan Legion is launching its latest fundraising campaign to repair and maintain its building, and long-time member Larry Preddy is among the first to show support. Preddy recently donated $15,000.00 to the Legion’s roof fund, marking the kickoff of the community effort.
“I’ve been a Legion member for years, but I’m not good at going to meetings. The Legion has been so good in the community. I grew up in Estevan, and from 1961 on, the Legion was always one of the centers of activity in town,” Preddy said. He explained that the Legion has always been a hub for community events, making it an important institution for the city.
Preddy also shared a personal reason for donating. “Above all, my dad was a veteran, and I know that he will want me doing this sort of thing because I know he would do it,” he said.
The Legion has already begun work on the roof, with Flynn Canada handling the project. Legion representative Frosty Forrest shared that the work is progressing well thanks to favorable weather. “The work has commenced on our roof, and these guys are doing it in such a manner that's not going to be a worry for us anymore,” Forrest said. The Legion hopes to complete the project by the end of October.
Forrest emphasized that the building is more than a structure. It’s a vital part of the community. “This is going to enable us to keep doing what we're doing, have our hall available. The Cadet Corps, senior citizens who come out to our bingos, they all rely on this space. We contribute a lot to the community through those activities,” he said.
With donations like Preddy’s helping to kickstart the campaign, the Legion hopes to raise enough funds to complete the roof without taking on debt. Preddy added, “If they need more, I’ll give them more.” Generosity that will hopefully spur on others in the community.