Some came for supper, some came for the music, and some just came to see people they hadn’t seen all winter.
By the end of the evening, about 175 residents had filled the Matlock Recreation Club for its free community spaghetti dinner and dance.
The event was created to make sure everyone in the community had a chance to attend a social evening, regardless of cost.
The goal was to “invite all community members to come out for an evening of dinner, dance and socializing and include people and families who may not be able to afford to purchase tickets to this type of event but would love to attend,” said recreation co-ordinator Crystal Thordarson.
The supper was organized by the Matlock Recreation Club board of directors and prepared with the help of approximately 14 to 15 volunteers along with the club’s recreation co-ordinator. This marked the third time the club has hosted the free dinner, which organizers hope will continue annually.
Music by DJ Allan Sulyma kept the dance floor active throughout the evening, with spot dances and prizes adding to the atmosphere.
“People have been expressing tons of gratitude for a wonderful evening and for all the volunteers for cooking such a great meal,” Thordarson said.
Offering free events is intentional for the club, which seeks out grants so cost is never a barrier to participation.
“The MRC recognizes that not all community members can afford to attend events with cost associated to them and therefore search out grants to offer classes and events for free to include not just some people from the community but all people,” she said.
The recreation club operates year-round as a gathering space for programs, classes and events serving all age groups.
“Our doors are always open. We are a very busy club that offers a safe space for people, groups, classes, courses and events throughout the year,” Thordarson said.
Attendance continues to grow, with new participants regularly appearing at programs.
“Each event, each week, we see more and more new faces. Our classes and programs tend to fill up quickly now,” she said.
Organizers say evenings like the spaghetti supper highlight the importance of community connection.
“Socialization is such an important part of staying healthy and happy. Community centres like ours are great places to meet people and stay busy and connected,” Thordarson said.
The club plans to host the supper again next year and encourages residents to get involved.
“The sense of pride we get from all the hard work and dedication to keeping the doors open and our club active cannot be put into words. We are all so very happy to serve the community we live in,” she said.
Residents interested in volunteering can contact Brenda-Lee Walker at 1-204-293-4096.
