Creating Community Impact

South Country Co-op Strengthens Community Impact with Second Major Donation Through Pilot Program

At South Country Co-op, community isn’t just part of what we do — it’s who we are. Every project we take on, every dollar we reinvest, and every partnership we form starts with one question: How can we make a real difference close to home?

This fall, that question led us to Nobleford, where our second major donation through the new Community Building Pilot Program is helping keep an important piece of the community alive — the Nobleford Curling Rink.

Launched in October, our Community Building Pilot Program was created to support local projects that bring people together, celebrate shared heritage, and help communities thrive. The first donation — $16,000 to the Nanton Grain Elevators & Rail Lands Rehabilitation Project — helped preserve an iconic landmark and strengthen a community gathering space.

Now, we’ve turned our attention to another local treasure...

Curling has deep roots in southern Alberta, and rinks like Nobleford’s are more than just places to play. They’re social hubs — where neighbours catch up, kids learn teamwork, and families gather on cold winter nights. But like many small-town facilities, the rink needed upgrades to stay open.

With support from South Country Co-op, the Nobleford Curling Club was able to complete the installation of a brand-new ice plant — a critical project that ensures the rink can stay operational for years to come.

“The Nobleford Curling Club is extremely excited for the sponsorship that South Country Co-op has provided for us! With this sponsorship we were able to complete our new ice plant. This would not have been possible without Co-op coming forward and helping us,” says Ken Hebenik, President of the Nobleford Curling Club. 

“South Country is also planning to host a Farmers Bonspiel annually at our rink, which we’re really excited about. This will be a great partnership moving forward — it’s great to see businesses like South Country giving back to help clubs like ours keep providing a place for people to get out, exercise, and socialize on a regular basis.”

For us, this project is about more than curling — it’s about connection. It’s about supporting the spaces that bring people together and reflect the heart of the communities we serve. By investing in the Nobleford Curling Rink, we’re helping ensure that a vital part of community life continues to thrive — today and for generations to come.