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By Pete McIntyre
isolate and create

Website allows people to learn, explore and create while supporting non-profits

Apr 16, 2020 | 10:38 AM

A new website, funded by a local government grant, is giving residents the opportunity to connect with resources, ideas and inspiration while they stay home and practice social distance.

okcreativeonline.com was developed by arts, culture, heritage and education organizations from across the North Okanagan.

The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) provided grant funding to develop and create content for the website that includes how-to videos, photography, virtual tours, and more.

“The RDNO recognizes this is a challenging time for people. The need to stay active and connected is more important than ever,” Amanda Shatzko, vice-chair of the RDNO Board of Directors, said. “While there is a lot of online content available, local organizations are doing amazing things to increase their engagement with the community. This website provides a one-stop-shop to access content virtually, allowing people of all ages to learn, explore and create while supporting local not-for-profits.”

The Greater Vernon Museum and Archives is excited to collaborate with other community partners to develop and manage this new website.

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“Like many not-for-profit cultural or recreational service providers, our team at the museum is unable to deliver regular face-to-face programming. So, when we heard about this project, our team volunteered to take a lead role in setting up and maintaining the website,” Steve Fleck, executive director of the Greater Vernon Museum and Archives, said.

When asked what people can expect to see when they go to the www.okcreateonline.com website, Fleck said: “The content will be engaging and robust. Along with art demos, gallery tours, historical footage and creative inspiration, the Okanagan Science Centre will even live stream some of their animals.”

“This is just the beginning, though,” Fleck said. “The site will continue to grow and be driven by the interests of the community. We will encourage people to participate in a variety of ways and provide a platform to help them share and connect with others around the region. As the project progresses, we will share information on how to access online tools and grow their comfort with learning and engaging online. This is a difficult time, but we can make the most of it by bringing people together in new ways.”

by Pete McIntyre
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