SRU and KYC Partner to establish the Kahnawake Recreation Steering Committee

05/29/2024

The Sports and Recreation Unit (SRU) of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake and the Kahnawake Youth Center (KYC) are pleased to announce that they have recently partnered up to establish the Kahnawake Recreation Steering Committee (KRSC). The KRSC is tasked with two major projects, the first being the development of a comprehensive ten (10) year Recreation Master Plan, which will begin with a community-wide assessment and evaluation of all existing programs, parks, and recreational facilities. Secondly, the KRSC is tasked with the creation of a Feasibility Study and Concept Design for the renovation, expansion, or construction of a new Kahnawake Youth Center facility.

Because both the KYC and SRU’s mandates are so closely related, it was decided to partner up to create a universal plan to fully address the needs of all Kahnawa’kehró:non. The project will provide KYC and SRU with the necessary information to make informed decisions moving forward in community recreation. The Recreation Master Plan and Feasibility Study project is expected to be completed in thirteen (13) months.

With a call out for interested community members released in January 2024 and subsequent interview and selection process, the Steering Committee is made up of a diverse group of eleven (11) individuals, with representation from SRU, the KYC, and three (3) community seats:

KYC Employees:
     Kyle Zacharie (Co-Chair)
     Kaitlyn Patterson
     Wahsontiio Montour
     Paxton Phillips (KYC Board of Directors member representative)

SRU Employees:
     Roiatate Horn (Co-Chair)
     Kwaronienhawi Jacobs: Treasurer
     Alan John Rice
     Harry Rice: Sports & Recreation file holder

Community Representatives:
     Shannon Lahache: Secretary
     Alex McComber
     Cougar Kirby

The volunteer Steering Committee will be working together with a consultant, who will play a critical role in guiding and providing input into the planning process, ensuring community engagement, and facilitating the successful completion of the project. One of the first community engagement events being planned is a Recreation Summit to take place on June 27, 2024.

The Steering Committee will maintain a steady stream of communications as required to ensure community input and support for this exciting project.