Grafton Community Action

In 2023 the organization was awarded a grant that provided much-needed financial resources to undertake a major renovation of the community park playground. This project aimed to revitalize the park and create a safer more engaging space for children and families. New playground features include: Tyrannosaurus Rex Fossil-Themed Play Area: A unique dinosaur-themed play structure that sparks imagination and provides interactive play for children. Swing Set: A new set of swings offering more options for children to enjoy outdoor play. Merry-Go-Round: An updated version of the classic playground fixture offering fun and group play. Spring Rider and Dirt Scooper: Fun additions that promote physical activity and coordination. With much of the previous equipment removed in recent years due to safety and insurance concerns this renovation was an essential step in revitalizing the park and providing a safe enjoyable space for the community. Approximately 20 volunteers helped with the installation of the new equipment contributing their time and effort to bring this vision to life. Their dedication was instrumental in ensuring the projects success and making it a community-driven achievement. The renovation has already sparked many new ideas for future improvements to the park. The organization is excited to continue developing the space and engaging with the community to explore additional ways to enhance he park for everyones enjoyment.

In 2023 our organization sponsored an annual Easter Egg hunt for local children drawing approximately 80 participants. In addition to providing candy for the hunt we also offered food and beverages to make the event even more enjoyable for families. This was a no cost event to the participants. The success of this event was made possible with the support of 15 dedicated volunteers. Our commitment to the community extends beyond this annual event. We also assist in the operation of the community center bar which plays a crucial role in supporting private events such as weddings graduations and other gatherings. The community center is a vital hub for our city and our organization is dedicated to ensuring its continued success and future existence.

In 2023 a major improvement project was completed at the historic depot and museum ensuring its continued role as a cherished community landmark. The boardwalk which had been reconstructed in the late 1970s was showing signs of wear so the decision was made to refurbish it. Rotten boards were replaced and the entire structure was carefully re-nailed to restore its strength and stability. Additionally the iconic semaphore railroad signal a prominent feature of the depot was given a thorough restoration. The signal was sandblasted to remove old paint and a resh silver coat was applied to restore its shine and protect it from the elements. The boardwalk was then treated with a wood-preservative to help safeguard it from future damage. These improvements ensure that the depot will continue to stand as a symbol of the towns heritage and a welcoming spot for visitors. The depot museum continues to serve as a popular attraction drawing approximately 200 visitors each season. Special events further enhance its role as a community hub with the addition of a new Halloween activity in 2023. During the community trick-or-treating event around 100 children visited the depot enjoying the festive atmosphere and exploring the museum. In December the museum hosted its annual "Depot Christmas" event which attracted around 250 attendees. The highlight of the evening was a visit from Santa Claus much to the delight of the children. As a special treat the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train passed through town around 8 PM adding a magical touch to the evening.

In addition to hosting community events the organization plays an active role in the beautification of the area. Each year volunteers dedicate their time to planting and maintaining flowers at the citys welcome signs creating a vibrant and inviting first impression for residents and visitors alike. The organization also ensures that the citys main street proudly displays American flags purchasing new flags annually to line the thoroughfare and celebrate the communitys patriotic spirit. These annual efforts not only beautify the area but also help maintain a welcoming atmosphere strengthening the pride and identity of the community.