GRANTS IN ACTION: Unity on the Green

GRANTS IN ACTION: Building Connections Through Lawn Bowling

    With the support of a 2025 Spring Community Grant from Community Foundation Grey Bruce, the Canadian Mental Health Association Grey Bruce Mental Health and Addiction Services delivered Unity on the Green – Summer Lawn Bowling Series 2025, a program designed to reduce barriers to recreation and help participants build meaningful social connections. Through weekly lawn bowling sessions at Roselawn Bowling Club, individuals participating in CMHA Grey Bruce's Social Recreation Program had the opportunity to stay active, learn a new skill, and experience a stronger sense of belonging.

    The program was created to ensure that individuals facing financial and social barriers could access a recreational activity that might otherwise be out of reach. Many participants in the Social Recreation Program live on limited incomes and often encounter challenges that can prevent them from taking part in community activities. By removing these barriers, Unity on the Green provided an accessible and welcoming opportunity for participants to engage with others in a supportive environment.

    Attending as a group helped participants feel comfortable and confident while expanding their social networks. Members were warmly welcomed by the Roselawn Bowling Club community, creating a positive experience that encouraged many participants to return each week and, in some cases, participate independently in weekend tournaments. Over the course of the summer, participants benefited from regular physical activity, opportunities for social interaction, and the chance to build new friendships. The weekly program helped reduce feelings of social isolation while fostering confidence, community connection, and improved mental and physical well-being.

    Grant funding covered the cost of participation and refreshments, helping ensure participants could comfortably and safely take part throughout the season. The benefits gained through the program have continued to positively impact participants beyond the summer months, supporting their long-term wellness and sense of community. The impact of the program was reflected in the experiences shared by participants. One participant noted: “I really enjoyed getting to learn a new sport with others in social rec. Sometimes I get nervous to try new things but lawn bowling with friends every week helped me feel less scared and got me outside even when I didn’t feel like it.”

    Unity on the Green demonstrated how accessible recreation can create meaningful opportunities for connection, inclusion, and personal growth. By bringing people together in a welcoming, judgment-free environment, the program helped participants build confidence, develop new friendships, and strengthen their connection to the broader community. The positive relationships and skills developed throughout the summer continue to support participants as they pursue active, healthy, and engaged lives. Community Foundation Grey Bruce is proud to support initiatives that foster well-being, belonging, and meaningful community connections across Grey Bruce.