Update #85
As this year comes to a close, it’s a fitting time to reflect with gratitude on how our community has come together to keep spirits strong and move forward to a bright future.
Plans for International Estonian Centre (IEC) – our new home in downtown Toronto that will welcome Estonians locally and from around the world - continue to gather momentum. We have accomplished a great deal in the past 12 months, despite local and global challenges.
There are so many strong teams of people and individuals who are making this happen: community volunteers and members who have taken time to provide ideas and input into how the new centre will be designed and operate; project volunteers, IEC leadership and consultants, City of Toronto staff and politicians.
We also keep close in our hearts the accomplishments and vision of our parents and grandparents who planted the seeds that would allow the Estonian community to grow and prosper. Their spirit is what has enabled us to get to this point, and will continue to propel us as plans progress.
Major milestones have been reached: the sale of the Broadview land assembly (site of the current Estonian House), completion of the detailed design drawings and application to the City of Toronto for the IEC’s Building Permit.
The Capital Campaign is going strong, with approximately $6 million raised from our generous donors. Thank you! This would not happen without you. The next instrumental phase of the campaign – Kungla Rahvas – will be launched in 2021.
The new year will herald the IEC’s ground-breaking! When the shovel hits the ground, it will be thanks to everyone – past and present - who has carried a deep commitment to ensuring the Estonian spirit remains strong and vibrant for generations to come.
Wishing you a beautiful Christmas filled with kindness and gratitude, health and energy, optimism and hope.
Let’s keep in touch!
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