Community rallies to build new playground at Fisher Branch Collegiate.
After years of planning and fundraising, the Fisher Playground Enhancement Project Committee is celebrating a major milestone, with 75 per cent of the funds now raised toward a new playground at Fisher Branch Collegiate.
Fisher Branch Collegiate is fundraising for a new middle years playground. Staff say the current play area is outdated and offers limited opportunities for physical activity. The project has reached 75 per cent of its Phase 1 fundraising goal, with community donations helping move construction closer
The project, led by a group of dedicated parents, staff and community members, aims to create a safe, inclusive and engaging outdoor play space for the school’s approximately 80 middle years students in grades 5 to 8, while also serving the wider community.
As of Jan. 20, the committee had raised $27,561.95 toward its Phase 1 goal of $36,678.88, allowing organizers to finalize the design and place a deposit on the first phase of equipment.
“The new playground will provide a safe, inclusive space where students can be active, have fun with peers and recharge during the school day,” said Fisher Branch Collegiate teacher Lindsay Rindall, speaking on behalf of the committee. “It represents an important investment in the well-being of our students and the broader community.”
The current play structure at the school is small and outdated, offering limited opportunities for physical activity. Rather than dismantling it, organizers plan to expand the area by adding new equipment to create more options for movement and play.
Staff say many students are currently disengaged during recess and are not participating in physical activity.
The upgraded playground is expected to include modern, durable equipment designed to promote climbing, balance and cooperative play. The project is being completed in two phases, with Phase 1 already ordered to secure 2025 pricing. To begin construction, Phase 1 must be fully paid for, with Phase 2 to follow once additional funding is secured.
Fundraising efforts for the project have been underway for about five years. After several unsuccessful grant applications, the committee shifted its focus to community-driven fundraising, and the response has been strong.
Local groups and organizations have stepped up with generous contributions, including Cooking in Cultures, Fisher Branch Fit Chicks, the Fisher Branch Filipino Community, Festival of the Arts and the local Women’s Institute. Students have also played a role, with a Grade 6 class contributing $1,400 after winning the IERHA school anti-vaping poster contest.
Additional funds have come from Ukrainian Co-op’s Fuel Good Day, private donations made through the RM of Fisher office, and a community cookbook fundraiser that raised $4,809. A full donor list will be displayed once the project is complete.
“We are incredibly grateful for the continued encouragement and generosity of our families and community partners,” said Rindall. “This project truly shows what can happen when a community comes together.”
To raise the remaining 25 per cent needed before installation can begin, organizers continue to host fundraisers and welcome donations of any size. A current online soup fundraiser with Mitchell’s Soup Company runs until 10 p.m. on Feb. 5, with 35 per cent of proceeds going directly toward the playground fund. A variety of soups are available, with each kit making eight to 10 two-cup portions. Orders can be placed by scanning the QR code; when prompted to enter a student’s name, purchasers are asked to enter Lindsay as the organizer name to ensure the order is credited to the fundraiser. All orders will be available for pickup at the school, with alternate pickup arrangements available by contacting Rindall and including a phone number with the order.
Donations can also be made in person at the RM of Fisher office, where tax receipts are available for contributions of $20 or more.
Organizers are hopeful that with continued community support and potential grant funding, construction can take place in the spring or summer of 2026.
“If we can finish strong, we’ll be able to move ahead without delays,” said Rindall. “Every donation, every fundraiser and every show of support brings us closer to giving our students a playground they can enjoy for years to come.”
For more information or to contribute, community members can contact Lindsay Rindall at 1-204-372-6459 or the RM of Fisher office.
