Collingwood Leisure Time Club welcomes member-driven activities
“There is no facility like it in the area,” says Howard Binsky, Collingwood Leisure Time Club board chair.
The club is unique in that all activities are member-driven, so the possibilities are only limited to the imagination of the facility’s users, and of the building itself, he says.
“People think this is just for old people and it’s not,” said Binsky.
The club is open to anyone 50 and older, and guests of any age are welcome. An annual membership costs $35, plus fees for specific activities as set by the coordinator.
On any given day the rooms may be used for card games, art classes, crafts, fitness, music, and coming soon, pickle ball. There is also a billiards room, with sofas and a library.
The Collingwood Leisure Time Club, which can accommodate 1,200 people, was founded in 1988 by a group of Collingwood citizens who raised funds and incorporated the club as a non-profit corporation. In 1995, an addition was added, doubling the size of the facility, thanks to a large bequest from a member.
The club is funded through annual membership fees, user activity fees, government grants, hall rentals, and special events, with support from the Town of Collingwood.
Membership has taken a hit since the pandemic and is now at about 500, down from over 1,300.
The club is trying to spread the word within Collingwood and surrounding areas about the great services offered there, and the sense of community.
Any member is welcome to pitch ideas for activities, and the board of directors is looking to fill some seats.
Binsky said the club would like to host craft shows, seminars, and more but they need volunteers, and as the membership ages, it hopes to appeal to some younger members.
“The facility is second to none,” said Binsky, referring to the big, bright rooms, with fully equipped kitchens and bars, all available to rent for events of all size.
Collingwood Leisure Time Club is located at 100 Minnesota Street. Information about activities, rentals, and fees is available at collingwoodleisuretimeclub. com, or call 705-445-9685.
