YORKTON – The Yorkton Kinsmen Club announced a significant donation of $220,000 towards the City of Yorkton's Kinsmen Arena Renovation Project at a press conference the afternoon of Jan. 27.
"We're donating $220,000 towards the city's renovation project — specifically towards the replacement of the boards and the glass in the Kinsmen Arena," said Ron Hanishewsky, President of the Yorkton Kinsmen Club, during a scrum with reporters after the announcement.
Hanishewsky emphasized the club's historical involvement with the facility.
"We helped fund the facility back in 1972 as well as renovations along the way. We know that this was a major renovation that was needed and we just felt that it was important that we get on board to support," said Hanishewsky.
Hanishewsky, a 25-year veteran of the Kinsmen and currently serving his second term as president, underscored the club's commitment to the community. The Kinsmen Club of Yorkton will celebrate its 80th anniversary this March.
In his address to those in attendance, Hanishewsky highlighted the club's dedication to multi-million dollar initiative
"This contribution reflects the ongoing commitment of the Kinsmen Club to the community — reinforcing its longstanding history of supporting local initiatives," said Hanishewsky.
Hanishewsky also expressed hope that the old boards and glass, if in good shape, could be repurposed for a community outdoor rink, furthering the club's commitment to enhancing local recreational facilities.
"Since its founding in 1945, the Kinsmen Club of Yorkton has been a pivotal force in the community — working tirelessly to improve the quality of life for its residents through various charitable activities and projects, including the initial partnership funding the Kinsmen Arena build in 1972," said Hanishewsky.
Mayor Aaron Kienle expressed his gratitude for the unexpected donation.
"It's super generous. An interesting fact is the project was moving ahead — we'd found the funds ... for the Kinsmen Club of Yorkton to come forward and donate that money after the fact ... it just makes it that much more special and we're really appreciative of it," said Kienle during a scrum with reporters.
Kienle said the project is still on course to be completed by September 2025 and acknowledged the Kinsmen Club's longstanding dedication to the community.
"Your ongoing efforts to enhance Yorkton's recreational facilities, host events and support various initiatives over the years have certainly made a lasting impact," said Kienle.
