Yellowknife Polar Bear Swim Club Handbook

Club Finances

The Yellowknife Polar Bear Swim Club (YKPBSC) uses a combination of membership fees, fundraising and other means to cover program expenses. In the past there was significant emphasis placed on various fundraising activities and quotas to be met by each swimmer and their family.

In 1999, in recognition of the extraordinary effort required by each family to meet fundraising obligations, the YKPBSC Board of Directors decided to reduce these obligations to a minimum. In order to do this it was necessary to increase fees charged. Board Members felt that this balancing of fundraising and fee structure would better suit most families. The decision to retain some fundraising was purposeful. Fundraising activities can be fun and they build confidence and responsibility.

Expenses

The primary expenses for the YKPBSC are pool rental time, programs, travel, equipment, training and some coaching costs. A copy of the Club's financial statements can be obtained anytime through the Treasurer.

Fundraising
Swimmers at each level will be required to participate in a small number of fundraising activities. These events will be determined as we progress through the season. Common fundraising events have been:

Swim-a-thon - Swim-a-thon is held each season in February. It gives swimmers and their parents a chance to enjoy a challenge event that shows just how much they have learned to that point in the season. The collection of pledges for this event is optional.

Candy Floss - The Club has a candy floss trailer. The swimmers are usually asked to help out selling candy floss when the trailer is set up. Candy floss is usually sold at Raven Mad Days in June (6 hours, three- 2 hour shifts, 2 adults, 6 kids per shift), and at Caribou Carnival (2 ½ days, 15 hours, six -2 ½ shifts, 2 adults, 3 kids per shift). The shifts vary depending on the ages of the swimmers helping. Other events may see the sales of candy floss as well.

Bingos - The Board will be organizing a number of bingo's throughout the season. Parents are requested to assist in running each event.

City Clean Up - this once a year event requires the participation of both swimmers and parents.

Sale of Frozen Pies - This year pie sales will be a voluntary fund raiser. The pies arrive just in time for Christmas, so why not encourage friends, family and co-workers to buy some to supplement their holiday baking.

New Ideas

Our fundraising strategies may not appeal to everyone. Every year we try to come up with something new. Selling chocolates and raffle tickets worked well for a while, but the competition is stiff. If you have any ideas on new strategies, please give any Board member a call.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Can anyone contribute to the YKPBSC?

Yes, any individual or organization can can contribute, providing the donation and/or contribution is legal.

Can a business or corporation contribute to the YKPBSC?

Yes, the Club has a number of corporate sponsors. Click below to find out who these great corporate citizens are. If you know of any others that may be interested please contact any Board member. See YKPBSC Corporate Sponsors

Can we get grants or financial assistance from Government to cover our costs?

Yes, the YKPBSC does receive some funding from NWT Swimming / Sport North who are responsible for dispersing Government of the Northwest Territories sport funding.stration fees and NWT Swimming Grants which receives its funding from Sport North

Membership Fees

Click here for information on membership fees

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