The Ark Facts:
Updated January, 2010
- operates under The Dawson Creek Youth Centre Society & is a non-profit organization
- The Ark began in 1989 and has been in operation for 20 years
- Our mandate is to create an exciting environment and to provide a positive, affordable alternative where all kids are valued and can participate.
- The target age range is between six and eighteen years
- Currently averages of 200 kids come to The Ark from the community on any given week during the winter months. Our summer programs are bringing in 20 - 40 youth (ages 12-30).
- All youth are encouraged to come and are valued as individuals.
-Presently we offer ball-hockey programs, skateboarding, mixed martial arts, beach volleyball (summer), 3 on 3 basketball tournaments (summer), PS2 & Wii video game systems, billiards, etc.
- We have up-graded our beach volleyball court and have started tournaments and summer drop-in. We've cleaned up and are maintaining our outside premises to create more of a park like appearance.
- The Ark has over 40 volunteer coaches, referees, youth workers, concession staff and board members.
- Volunteers put in over 400 hours per month during the Fall/Winter programs, and over 30 volunteer hours per month during the summer programs; an average of over 300 volunteer hours per month for the year.
- Paid staff include a part time administrator, a part time janitor and a full time director.
- The Ark's financial support:
25% of the revenue comes from drop-in and concession revenues
60% comes from private donations from over 100 individuals and businesses
the remaining portion comes from fundraising activities, service clubs,churches and associations
-Each year The Ark hosts a fundraising banquet. Each banquet a special guest speaker is featured from Sports figures to youth workers. The purpose of the banquet is to inform our supporters of what's going on at The Ark as well as to offer our thanks.
-Currently, The Ark does not receive any financial assistance from any level of government.
- The Ark has received national attention of which people from across the country are requesting information on how to start an Ark in their community.
