Thamesville Sertoma Club Celebrates 55 Years with Renovated Clubhouse

The Thamesville Sertoma Club recently held a dedication ceremony to celebrate the completion of renovations to its clubhouse and mark its 55th anniversary of community service. This event, attended by local officials and community members, highlighted the club’s gratitude to the businesses, organizations, and individuals whose financial support made the renovations possible.

The club’s facility, located on Railroad Street, has undergone a series of updates over the years, including significant renovations made possible by proceeds from the sale of their former clubhouse on William Street. The building was originally gifted to the Sertoma Club by the Odd Fellows and Rebekah Lodge for just $1 in 2011, thanks to the efforts of Calvin Clark.

At the ceremony, Mike Wright, treasurer of the Sertoma Club, expressed appreciation for the community’s ongoing support. “We want to recognize the people who helped us over the years,” he stated, noting that the club has been gradually updating the building. One of the most notable improvements includes the removal of the roof from the back portion of the building to create a covered deck. Other enhancements involved renovations to the kitchen, washrooms, and sidewalks, ensuring full accessibility for all visitors.

Funding for these updates has come from a variety of sources. A significant contribution of $20,000 from Farm Credit Canada facilitated the final kitchen and washroom renovations. In addition, major support from the Thamesville Fireman’s Association and the Chatham-Kent Community Foundation, each donating over $5,000 over the years, has been crucial. The Sertoma Club also organized fundraising through events such as golf tournaments, food sales at local gatherings, and a bottle return program.

In 2022, the Sertoma Club donated a remarkable $69,000 back into the community, with initiatives including assistance for needy families during the Christmas season. Such efforts underscore the club’s commitment to serving the Thamesville area.

The dedication ceremony coincided with the club’s anniversary celebration, emphasizing its growth even as many service organizations face challenges with declining membership. The Thamesville Sertoma Club is thriving, boasting a membership of 72 and welcoming a new member during the event. “It’s a small town, and we’re localized, so people see what we do and want to be a part of it,” Wright explained. The members share a strong connection to the community, reflected in the support they receive during events and fundraising activities.

Local representatives also attended the ceremony to convey their congratulations. John Wright, Ward 3 Councillor, expressed gratitude on behalf of the Municipality. “If it wasn’t for volunteer groups in all of our communities, nothing would get done,” he remarked, praising the Sertoma Club’s contributions.

Rick Patterson, Chief of Thamesville Fire Station 8, echoed similar sentiments, recognizing the club’s spirit and its positive impact on the community. “It takes a lot of people to build a community, and you guys have a lot of spirit,” he added.

As the Thamesville Sertoma Club continues to foster community spirit and support, its renovated clubhouse stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the dedication of its members in creating a better environment for all.