Town of Banff

Banff Rotary Community Hub

Many of Banff's non-profit organizations share space and resources at the Rotary Community Hub

Living and working space is at a premium in Banff, and non-profit groups have neither the money nor priority to be picky about where they house themselves. Groups have negotiated themselves spaces in basements, shared spaces and even storage rooms with no windows or a bathroom!

In the 2007 Banff Non-Profit Assessment 43% stated they did not have adequate facilities.  For over ten years the Town of Banff FCSS, the community and local groups have been talking about the need for a space where non-profits can share space and resources together and their clients benefit from one place to access services.

In the summer of 2007 that talking turned into action. A local church came forward with idea of renting the minister’s manse for community space. It was a great central location just off Banff’s main street at 302 Buffalo Street. After approaching some non-profits about the opportunity it became apparent that funding would be needed to help with start up costs, rent and operating costs.

In true Banff fashion the community came together to make it happen. The Banff Rotary Club came on board to sponsor the rent for 5 years, the Town of Banff covered the operating costs on a reducing scale for 3 years, and the Banff Community Foundation helped with equipment.  Local businesses contributed approximately $35,000 of services and materials so the house could be wired for IT, renovated, and furnished. Community volunteers logged over 300 hours, painting and cleaning and organizing the house to ensure it was ready to go for early 2008.

The grand opening took place in January 2008 with Mayor John Stutz & MLA Janis Tarchuk officiating and the Banff Rotary Community Hub was open for business! Primary tenants include the Banff Volunteer Centre, BanffLIFE (18-30s programming), Bow Valley Cares, Banff Ideas Bank and Interpretive Guides Association. Other users are The Club House (mental health lunch group), Mountain Pride (gay support group), Grief Support Network, Precipice Theatre, and the Banff Youth Program. Facilities include board room, large programming space, kitchen, and photocopier. Groups say they “love the community feel of the building”.