Fundraising Campaign for Pryde Aquatic and Wellness Centre Surpasses $3 Million Goal

A fundraising closeout report presented to Council on March 23 announced that the Town of Saugeen Shores has exceeded its $3 million goal for the Pryde Aquatic and Wellness Centre (AWC) fundraising campaign, raising a total of $3,135,991 over the past two and a half years.  

“I never had any doubt that we would exceed the fundraising target for the Pryde Aquatic and Wellness Centre. The success of the campaign reflects strong community support for a shared vision of health, wellness, and recreation in Saugeen Shores,” said Mayor Charbonneau. “Thank you to the many donors, sponsors, businesses, community groups, and residents whose generosity helped make this milestone possible.”    

The campaign included both ‘Quiet Ask’ and Public Fundraising with support opportunities ranging from major donations and naming rights to Commemorative Brick purchases. The Centre itself is named in honour of Brad and Kathy Pryde, whose leadership gift launched the fundraising campaign and set the tone for community support. The eight‑lane competition pool is named in honour of major donor Bruce Power. 

All donors are recognized on the Pryde Aquatic and Wellness Centre donor wall, located at the south entrance of the facility. Recognition levels include Great Lakes of Giving ($500K to $1M), Waves of Gratitude ($100K to $499.9K), Currents of Compassion ($25K to $99.9K), and Ripples of Kindness ($5K to $24.9K). 

The Town of Saugeen Shores thanks every donor who contributed to the campaign. This collective generosity has helped create a welcoming, inclusive facility that will benefit the community for generations to come.  

Approved by Council in December 2022, the Pryde Aquatic and Wellness Centre capital build was funded through the Town’s Legacy Reserve and Development Charges. While construction was fully funded, the fundraising campaign helped support this significant financial expenditure. 

The Pryde Aquatic and Wellness Centre is a regional hub for recreation and wellness, offering an eight-lane competition pool, leisure pool, fitness centre, walking track, gymnasium, and multi-purpose program rooms that serve people of all ages and abilities. The facility represents a long-term investment in community well-being and connection. Pryde AWC Operations and Management is highlighted as a Major Initiative in the Town of Saugeen Shores 2026 Business Plan (pg. 24), with construction of the facility included in the 2024 and 2025 Business Plans.