The Peterborough Naval Association Announces It Is Dissolving Organization

The Peterborough Naval Association has announced it is dissolving its organization and will create a trust fund with the proceeds from the sale of its property to support veterans, veterans’ families, veterans’ organizations, educational bursaries and other causes.

“Faced with declining revenues and increasing costs, our members voted to dissolve the association and sell the property at this time to create a legacy fund that will continue to support veterans and their families into the future,” says Dan Ayotte, interim president of the Association.

The Peterborough Naval Association has been an active, involved veterans’ association for more than 70 years, fulfilling the mandate of its Charter. It was launched in November 1947, and incorporated in 1953. The association was involved in the formation of the national Royal Canadian Naval Association.

Photo via Peterborough Naval Association Facebook page

The Naval Association fostered a spirit of fellowship and assistance among those who have served and supporters of those who have served in the naval services of Canada, the British Commonwealth and its Allies. It preserved the memory of service members who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of their country. And it supported charitable organizations in the community.

One of the main factors behind the increased costs for the association was the age of the facilities with rising maintenance and operating costs for the property at 24 Whitlaw St.

In addition to creating a trust fund to support veterans and their families, the Naval Association is leaving a legacy in another way. The Naval Association is transferring its property to the City of Peterborough to become public land that’s next to Beavermead Park and a future extension of the trail network around Little Lake

Mayor Diane Therrien says the Naval Association leaves a legacy in the lives of veterans and their families who created friendships and enjoyed activities through the association’s facilities and programs. “Even as the association plans for its dissolution, the members are focused on helping veterans and contributing to the broader community,” Therrien says.

“With those values, I know the Naval Association will continue to be a presence in our community, regardless of whether it’s an incorporated organization or an informal, close knit association of veterans and community minded individuals.”

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