Ponoka Pride Society announces dissolution

PONOKA -- The Ponoka Pride Society is dissolving its operations effective immediately. 

The non-profit organization cites a number of reasons for its decision, including limited fiscal resources, inconsistent community engagement, and a lack of support from government. The Ponoka Pride Society first came together in 2021 and was the host of events such as the "Pride in the Park" celebrations in support of LGBTQ. In a statement, they say that they lack the structural support to continue their operations.

"This is not a failure of vision, values, or care," said the organization in a statement. "It's a reflection of how difficult it is for community-driven organizations to survive with adequate funding, backing, and shared responsibility. Passion alone cannot replace material support."

The group went on to express their gratitude to their volunteers, donors, and collaborators over the past several years, as well as the community members who helped support their operations and events. They've chosen to donate their remaining $1,466 in funding to Camp Fyrefly, which is a leadership retreat for queer and trans youth between the ages of 14 and 21. 

"Thank you for being a part of the Ponoka Pride Society," read the statement. "We hope that we've shown our small town that there are safe, accepting, and loving people in this community, who want to help create safe spaces for people to live authentically."