F.A.Q.

What is 1 Square Foot?

1 Square Foot is a fundraising initiative organized by the Ottawa Skateboard Community Association (OSCA) to raise money for the expansion of the McNabb skate park.

How much of the fundraising campaign is going to administration fees?

We hope to minimize the amount of fundraising dollars that go to administrative costs. None of our directors, advocates, managers, or associates take any compensation. We use fundraising dollars to finance future fundraising efforts but have set the goal that 70% percent of every dollar spent on these efforts be made back and put towards the skate park. It still costs money to fundraise and these costs add up and include: marketing and promotional materials, permits, website upgrades, PayPal fees, etc.

Is the Ottawa Skateboard Community Association (OSCA) a non-profit organization?

We are a registered non-profit organization. We were incorporated by the Ministry of Government services in Ontario in December of 2011 and our business number is 1845395. More information about OSCA can be found by checking out the website (www.ottawaskateboard.com), Facebook page (www.facebook.com/pages/ottawa-skateboard- community-association) or contacting Aaron Cayer, Director, at info@ottawaskateboard.com.

When is the park being built?

Phase 1 of the skateboard park is being built in the Summer of 2014. The City of Ottawa expects to be completed sometime in mid-July. Phase 2 will be built when OSCA raises enough funds through 1 Square Foot to see the second phase through to completion.

What is the deadline for raising funds for the McNabb Skate Park?

Fortunately, there is no set deadline for fundraising. When we collect the funds needed, the addition to the park will be built. However, OSCA has set a goal of having the entire park completed by the Summer of 2015.

How can I get a tax receipt for my donation?

Tax receipts can be given for donations of $500 or more. Those requiring a tax receipt will be directed to the Rotary Club of Ottawa South (RCOS) as OSCA is a non-profit and cannot provide the receipts directly. RCOS is a strategic partner and will be handling all large donations. They are a service organization and a registered charity that has supported a number of projects with a focus on health-related charities.

I can’t donate financially but still want to help out - What can I do?

You can help out in a number of ways. OSCA hosts monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month and location and times can be found on the OSCA Facebook page. If you would like to host your own fundraising event for the McNabb skate park or be a volunteer at one of OSCA’s upcoming fundraising events, email info@ottawaskateboard.com.

How much money has been raised so far?

As of March 2014, 1 Square Foot has raised $17,500.

What’s the deal with $40 per square foot?

$40 is the average approximate cost per square foot to build a skateboard park.

Why is the City of Ottawa not financing the entire skate park project?

OSCA has lobbied the City of Ottawa to step up and make a larger financial contribution. Unfortunately, at this point, the City does not have the budget to pay for the expansion. This skateboard park was funded by Cash In Lieu (funds allocated to city wards for lack of greenspace) from the councillor in the ward and development fees from recent condominium developments.

How can I monitor the progress of this project?

Updates will be posted on our website and Facebook page to keep everyone informed of the progress.

Who can I contact about more information?

For more information, contact info@ottawaskateboard.com or check out www.1squarefoot.ca.X