After a long wait, the time has arrived for Calico Gymnastics.

The organization announced on Tuesday that shovels will soon hit the ground on a brand new building in Humboldt.

Calico Board President Carolyn MacLean says that while fundraising will still continue to occur for the organization, they are now ready to begin construction.

"There's been active fundraising for two years, but I think the dream has been there for a long time. Calico Gymnastics started in a church basement, moved to the mall, and then I think it really started going when they got kicked out of the mall and came (to the temporary building)."

Funds for the new building were boosted heavily by Conexus Credit Union, who donated $60,000, and Discovery Group of Companies, who chipped in with $50,000.

Gordon Lees with Discovery says that supporting Calico falls well within their company values.

"We get really excited when it has to do with kids. It's kids, and is an organization that is growing," he explained. "It can be a springboard into helping kids with other activities whether it be dance or hockey. It's a really positive experience we have had with Calico."

"We're proud to be apart of that, and hats off to them for all their hard work."

For reasons quite similar, Conexus felt the need to hop on with the project, according to Joanne Grywacheski.

"Conexus is right on board [with supporting kids]. We believe in community and the values, and we're here to support that as well. Especially the kids, growing in the community, getting what they need right here at home," she noted. "We have a concern for community in general. Basically, it is all types of athletics and programs in the community that we support."

With the large financial contributions from Conexus and Discovery, MacLean says it has kept Calico buzzing with anticipation.

"It gives us chills every time we sit around and talk about where we're headed and that this process has started," she exclaimed. "It gives you this sense of support that Calico will be around for a long time and we're able to help the youth of Humboldt and surrounding areas."

The new building is a partnership with the city of Humboldt and will be part of a joint-use program, allowing many families and organizations to reap the rewards. Among the new features will be a foam pit, which allows the athletes to better their craft in Humboldt, rather than having to travel to Saskatoon.

MacLean added that they are hoping for construction to begin just ahead of the May long weekend, concluding in time for fall classes.

"We are hoping by October 1st we will be there with our classes running. Our fall registration will go ahead as planned," she said. "Our competitive team needs to keep going, so we will be in the curling rink all summer."

Their current facility was a temporary solution, and has been sold, forcing the move to the curling rink.

Asked how proud Calico is about having the new building project fulfilled, MacLean reiterated the organization's thanks to those involved.

"It is just amazing. We're so thankful for all the support we have received from the community, Conexus, and Discovery Group of Companies."


You can hear more from MacLean as well as Lees and Grywacheski below.