The L.E.A.F. Initiative is a Commonwell program to support capacity, resiliency and growth in the communities we call home.

STEAMing in the Kawarthas

50 Oak Street (Parking is at 99 Francis Street West, hence it is publicly listed as this address) Fenelon Falls, ONK0M1N0

Target Completion Date: December 31, 2026

What is this project about?

Maryboro Lodge Museum will offer free, daily educational programming at the museum and other partner locations in the Kawartha Lakes region. In the summer, this will include a great variety of outdoor activities including: a mini putt course where the buildings are notable local historical landmarks, an activity to stand in a bubble, the opportunity to make and launch a rocket, a model waterway, activities to learn about wind, car building activities, the chance to build and race boats, an interactive plumbing activity, circuits, an educational volcano activity, many different arts and crafts, dancing, interactive musical activities and many more. Each day, there will be a new, special activity. This program will give local families the chance to learn while having a lot of fun.

Why is this project important to the community?

Maryboro Lodge Museum is located in a village, in a rural area, where there are limited public services available. The Museum strives to be a safe, warm and welcoming location for community cultural activities, a place where everyone works together to create happy memories for their friends and neighbours. Managed by local volunteers, the museum offers a lot of family programming, both at its location and at partner venues in the area. There is no other organization in the area offering comparable services. Over the course of the program, we expect that practically every local family will take part in one way or another, and many families will travel to the Kawarthas to participate. It is very important to local families that there is always fun, educational, uplifting programming that anyone can participate in, free of charge. These community volunteers listen to visitors and tailor programming to align with the interests of participants. They work very hard to make dreams come true. It is very important to our community that these programs are consistently available, and that every effort is made to ensure that everyone is welcomed.