Prince Albert, Sask. — Accounting and consulting firm MNP has stepped forward with a $100,000 contribution to sponsor an Ice Surfacer for the new arenas at the Lake Country Co-op Leisure Centre, marking a significant investment in community recreation and wellness in Prince Albert.
The donation was announced by the City of Prince Albert and the Play it Forward campaign team, which has been leading efforts to secure support for the city’s largest-ever recreational infrastructure project. Officials said the gift underscores MNP’s commitment to fostering community growth and providing spaces that encourage both health and connection.
Commitment Beyond Business
MNP’s partnership will ensure the new facility is equipped with the necessary tools to maintain quality ice surfaces, but city officials stressed the impact goes far beyond equipment.
“MNP’s ‘Precision Matters On and Off the Ice’ tagline could not be more fitting,” the release stated. “Just as precision drives success in sport and business, this investment will help create a facility where precision, play, and community come together.”
For Dawn Kilmer, City Councillor, the donation represents more than a financial contribution.
“This gift from MNP is about more than just equipment—it’s about helping build a place where people of all ages can connect, play, and thrive,” Kilmer said.
Building a Community Hub
The Lake Country Co-op Leisure Centre is described as a transformational development for Prince Albert. Once completed, it will be the largest recreational infrastructure project in the city’s history, with the potential to serve as a central hub for both competitive and recreational activities.
The facility is expected to host a wide range of programming, providing opportunities for youth development, family recreation, and regional events. Officials believe the project will play a role in strengthening community bonds and supporting economic vitality by attracting tournaments and events from across Saskatchewan and beyond.
The Play it Forward campaign, which has been actively engaging local organizations and residents in support of the centre, framed MNP’s contribution as a milestone in the city’s effort to ensure the new arenas are fully equipped to meet community needs.
Long-Term Benefits
City leaders emphasized that the investment represents a lasting commitment to Prince Albert residents.
“The City of Prince Albert proudly recognizes MNP as a valued community partner whose generosity will benefit residents for generations,” the release noted.
The new Ice Surfacer is expected to enhance both user experience and operational efficiency at the arenas, ensuring that athletes, families, and community members enjoy high-quality facilities for years to come.
Private Sector Partnerships Driving Growth
MNP’s contribution highlights the increasing role of private sector partnerships in funding large-scale municipal projects. As municipalities face growing demand for recreation and community infrastructure, sponsorships and corporate donations have become vital in bridging funding gaps and accelerating project completion.
For MNP, which has a long-standing presence across Canada as one of the country’s leading accounting, tax, and consulting firms, the donation also reinforces its brand values. The company has positioned itself not only as a provider of professional services but also as a community partner supporting wellness, sport, and local growth initiatives.
A Facility for All Ages
When completed, the Lake Country Co-op Leisure Centre will provide spaces that appeal to residents across age groups — from youth athletes honing their skills, to families seeking recreational opportunities, to seniors engaging in community activities.
Officials say the centre will be more than just a sports venue. By offering opportunities for social connection, physical activity, and regional engagement, it is expected to enhance overall quality of life in Prince Albert.
Looking Ahead
The Play it Forward campaign team continues to seek additional sponsorships and community support to complete funding for the facility. With MNP’s donation, the campaign gains momentum, demonstrating the power of partnerships between municipalities, local leaders, and businesses.
As construction progresses, residents are anticipating a modern recreation hub that will serve as a legacy project for Prince Albert. For the city, the Ice Surfacer donation represents both a practical and symbolic investment: one that ensures the new arenas are ready for action while reinforcing the importance of collaboration in building stronger communities.
