February 2026 Economic Development Update:
Community clubs are the backbone of our rural communities in Sunrise Corner. Powered by volunteers, they create places to gather, celebrate, and connect – while maintaining facilities that serve residents year-round. Since inception, Sunrise Corner has been committed to supporting community clubs with practical, hands-on assistance that helps reduce volunteer burnout and strengthens long-term sustainability.
Grant & Funding Support
Navigating grants can be time-consuming, especially for volunteer-led organizations. To help build local capacity, grant-writing training sessions were offered for community volunteers in Vita and Vassar, focused on practical tips, common pitfalls, and where to find funding opportunities. If you or your club were unable to attend, please reach out by email and the full set of valuable resources and templates shared at the sessions will be sent directly to you. In addition, one-on-one support is available to brainstorm ideas, review applications and provide letters of support.
Marketing & Promotion
Getting the word out early is key to strong event attendance. Sunrise Corner promotes community events through its online event calendar, social media channels and mobile signs. Event organizers are encouraged to submit dates as early as possible, even if all details aren’t yet finalized. Early listings help residents plan ahead and also assist other community groups in identifying available dates and avoiding scheduling conflicts. Details can always be updated as plans are confirmed.
https://sunrisecornermb.ca/event-calendar/
Facility & Revenue Development
Many community clubs have underutilized assets that can generate much-needed revenue. Volunteers are encouraged to provide full details about their facilities – such as hall size, kitchens, accessibility, parking, and amenities – so Sunrise Corner can help market venues for rentals. These spaces are ideal for family reunions, corporate meetings, workshops, and milestone celebrations, with rental income helping offset fundraising pressures.
https://sunrisecornermb.ca/business-listings/category/community-facilities/
Volunteer Capacity & Planning
Finding and retaining volunteers is an ongoing challenge. Sunrise Corner’s WorkFinder tool helps by listing local volunteering opportunities in one central place, connecting residents who want to contribute with clubs that need extra hands. Support is also available for brainstorming new event ideas, improving planning processes, and building volunteer succession.
https://sunrisecornermb.ca/services/workfinder/
All Sunrise Corner services are free for community clubs in the Sunrise Corner region. Whether you need help with grants, promotion, facilities, or volunteers, support is just an email away – and designed to make volunteering a little easier and a lot more rewarding.
Monique Chenier
monique@sunrisecornermb.ca