ABOUT SWACA (South Wellington and Area Community Association)
Our Story
The South Wellington and Area Community Association (SWACA) was established in the early 2000s by a dedicated group of parents who were actively involved with South Wellington Elementary School. In our small rural community, opportunities for recreation, culture, and community gathering were limited, making the school the natural heart of the community.
Through the Parent Advisory Council (PAC), volunteers worked tirelessly to raise funds each year, ensuring that students and their families could participate in educational, recreational, and cultural programs without financial barriers. As the needs of the community grew, SWACA was formed to extend these opportunities beyond the school, bringing together residents from South Wellington and neighbouring communities through inclusive programs, events, and activities for all ages.
When South Wellington Elementary School closed, SWACA's mission evolved. Recognizing the school's importance as a community gathering place, the association committed itself to preserving the building for future generations. Over the next two decades, SWACA worked tirelessly to prevent the school from being demolished, advocating for its value as a vital community asset.
Through years of collaboration with the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) and School District 68, a shared vision emerged: to transform the former school into a vibrant community centre serving South Wellington and the surrounding area. Thanks to the dedication of countless volunteers, community members, and partner organizations, that vision became a reality. Today, SWACA proudly manages and operates the community centre, ensuring it remains a welcoming space where people can gather, learn, celebrate, and connect.
From its beginnings as a small group of committed parents to its role as the steward of a thriving community hub, SWACA has remained true to its founding purpose: strengthening our rural communities by creating opportunities for connection, recreation, culture, and belonging. As we look to the future, we continue to build on this legacy, welcoming everyone to be part of the next chapter in our community's story.
