By Greg Douglas – Dr. Sport
SCENE & HEARD: Hastings Racecourse was making some positive headlines in political circles this past week when it was named in concert with Great Canadian Gaming Corporation as a recipient of a 2018 Child Care Award of Excellence.
The Honourable Katrine Conroy, Minister of Children and Family Development and Minister of State for Child Care Katrina Chen, hosted a dinner at the Radisson Hotel Vancouver Airport to acknowledge awards in eight categories in appreciation of outstanding service provided to children and families across the province.
Nominated by Kiwassa Neighbourhood House, the selection panel chose the Hastings Park Childcare Centre as its winner in the Partnerships Award category.
“You are making valuable contributions to children and families and we commend you for your work,” the Ministry announced, referring to Hastings Park Childcare Centre operated by Kiwassa Neighbourhood House that opened on April 1, 2011. The Centre provides 44 spaces that include facilities for infants, toddlers and children aged three to five years.
“We have been proud and invested partners in the Hastings Sunrise Community and the Childcare Centre is an important part of the role we play in that area of the City,” said Terrance Doyle, Chief Operating Officer of Great Canadian, parent company of Hastings Racecourse. “We’re thrilled to be recognized by the Ministry of Children and Family Development for our investment in, and commitment to, the Hastings Park Childcare Centre as part of our community benefits agreement with the City of Vancouver for the operation of Hastings Racecourse.”
Darren MacDonald, Hastings GM and Director of Racing, B.C., accepted the award and thanked Kiwassa Neighbourhood House for its nomination.
It was a feel good story all around.