The Virden Ag Grounds Barn Rebuild project, a crucial initiative to modernize the current aging facility, is one of 14 projects that have received a portion of $1 million as a 2024 recipient of
Co-op Community Spaces.
Valleyview Co-op General Manager Greg Gill says the Virden Ag Society Project aligns with Co-op values. “We are grateful to have the Virden Ag Society project selected as the recipient of the Co-op Community Spaces funding. This generous support will significantly enhance the Ag Society’s facilities, allow them to attract more great community events, and improve our community. One of Valleyview Co-op’s values is Community, and we cannot be happier for the Virden Ag Society as we work together to build a better community, increase tourism and celebrate Manitoba agriculture.”
Celebrating its 10th year, Community Spaces has invested $13.5 million in 189 projects in three categories: recreation, environmental conservation and urban agriculture. FCL administers Community Spaces for more than 160 local Co-ops operating in 600 communities.
Virden Ag Society members Everett More and Darcy Strain say this project will impact the community for many years. “The Virden Ag Grounds have been home to events for over 140 years with an average of 12,000 spectators annually over the last 10 years. To attract new and existing events to the community of Virden, we identified that a complete teardown of the old barn structure and a new community barn would be critical for the venue’s future success. The new barn will better meet the needs of our event organizers and attendees while ensuring the highest level of safety for livestock and their handlers. The Virden Ag Society values its partnership with Valleyview Co-op, and this grant will enhance our facility. Without the support of the Co-op, this would not have been feasible, and we appreciate the help we received from Valleyview Co-op working with PR marketing manager Amber Vandale Torrance and general manager Greg Gill. We are grateful for this opportunity and excited to introduce the community to the new Co-op Community Barn in the fall of 2024.”
Image – The old barn – Facebook
Learn more about the program and its recipients at Community Spaces | Co-op
