History

The Mayne Island Community Center Society evolved from an earlier group, the Mayne Community Association, whose original purpose was to create both a senior’s housing facility and a community centre.

Timeline

1994: The Mayne Island Community Centre Society was incorporated separately as a non-profit society on July 6, with a constitutional mandate to first acquire a site, and then build and operate a Community Centre.

1998: Land! After some initial searching for land, Mr. Charlie Kim generously donated an excellent five-acre site with good southern exposure in the civic core of the island, as part of a development proposal for a large tract of land. At the time, a design committee working with Irving/Pitcher Architects of Mayne Island explored many building options, with various Island organizations as possible partners and tenants.

2002: Funding! The Society received a $100,000 Provincial Community Partners Grant, at which point Phase 1 of the Centre began, and shovels hit the ground.

Land! Generously donated by Charlie Kim.
Barry Wilks breaks ground.
Phase I of the centre is framed.
Building finished.
Ribbon cutting.
Attendees at the opening celebration.

2003: Doors Open! The Grand Opening took place on June 21, 2003. This was a long-awaited celebration and acknowledgement of the foresight, determination, generosity, talent, and hard work put in by members of the community.

Over the years since opening, Board Members have undertaken several physical improvement projects such as an automatic lighting system in the parking areas, a rainwater roof-catchment and storage system, full catering functionality, the Community Garden, and more recently, an energy saving installation of solar panels.

2019: In September, MICCS celebrated 25 years since its inception. A good time was had by all. Check out the photos on our Facebook page.

The Future

Phase 2: Expansion has been part of the vision since the early days. Original plans included an auditorium and stage facility, possibly incorporating sports functionality. Over time, demands for space are increasing. As the island population grows, more groups are requiring use of the facility.

Providing needed space will require a major fund raising effort. The Board would be happy to hear from anyone with ideas or expertise in this area! Original concept plans are available on request. Please contact us if you can help, and if you are able, consider making a donation.