Pat Porter Active Living Centre hosts Irish themed fundraiser

Lucky and Charmed is the title of the 2025 annual fundraising banquet planned for the Pat Porter Active Living Centre.

Scheduled for March 13, the event raises funds to pay for operating expenses such as insurance costs and other bills. Its success means the centre doesn’t need to devote extensive time throughout the year on fundraising.

Executive Director Audrey Harder said it also allows them to offer activities at a reasonable price.

With an annual budget nearing $850,000, it can be tough to find the funds.

A grant for $105,000 comes from the City of Steinbach, which along with user fees pays for accessible transit. Southern Health offers funding that covers about 21 percent of their remaining cost.

The rest must be raised through donations, user fees and fundraising.

The event will feature the McConnell Irish Dancers and Matt Falk.

Harder admits Falk, a local comedian, was retained before they chose the Irish theme, but laughingly said they’re all about culture at the Pat Porter.

This is no formal banquet, and Harder said it’s a fun time for everyone who takes part.

Memberships are on the rise at the facility with last year’s total reaching 687.

This year they hope to reach 700 and are at 600 already.

The banquet will also be where they unveil a new plan for their $3.5 million addition, modified after expected grants did not materialize.

Tickets for the banquet cost $60, (with a $40 tax receipt) and are available at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre, by phone at 204-320-4600 or at info@patporteralc.com.