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By Shoaib Aslam
Genesis Centre Playground: The Future of the Community
The Genesis Centre has always been more than just a recreational facility. Since opening its doors in 2012, it has become a place where the community gathers and people from different backgrounds celebrate one another. From sports and fitness programs to cultural celebrations, community events and more, the Genesis Centre plays an important role in Northeast Calgary.
As the community continues to grow, so does the need for accessible spaces where people can stay connected, active, and involved in community life. In 2023, the Genesis Centre began an outdoor expansion on underutilized grounds as part of Phase 1, which added the artificial field and natural turf for residents to enjoy. Phase 2 builds on that progress by adding an accessible playground, an outdoor basketball court, and a walkway connecting the two spaces.
Growing With the Community
Northeast Calgary is a diverse community with a growing population. As more families settle in the area, community facilities must continue to adapt to meet their changing needs. Phase 2 represents an important step toward ensuring that Genesis Centre can continue serving residents for years to come.
The expansion provides an opportunity to build upon everything that has already made Genesis Centre successful. By enhancing underutilized outdoor space, the playground creates new opportunities for recreation, family activities, and social connection.
For families, having welcoming spaces nearby can make a meaningful difference. Children can play and stay active, parents can participate in community activities, and residents of all ages can find programs that encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.
The goal is to create an environment where families and community members do more than visit for one activity — they can spend more time together, discover new opportunities, and build lasting connections.
How Playgrounds Help Kids Develop
The playground offers activities designed for different age groups. Early childhood and toddler-aged children can enjoy low-to-the-ground sensory play panels, soft-play elements, and gentle tactile activities that encourage exploration and creativity.
School-age children can challenge themselves with dynamic climbing structures, slides, and other activities designed to develop coordination, physical strength, and confidence through active play.
These activities provide more than entertainment. As children learn to navigate new challenges and master activities that may have initially seemed difficult, they can develop greater self-confidence and self-esteem. Playing alongside other children also provides valuable opportunities to develop social skills, make new friends, and learn how to communicate and cooperate with others.
What Sherry King Has to Say
Sherry King, Executive Director of Genesis Centre, shared her thoughts on the new park and the opportunities it will create for the community:
“We saw this as an opportunity to have a multi-generational space; grandparents can sit on the bench and watch their grandchildren play while the parents and older siblings engage in other sports in the adjacent play areas.”
— Sherry King, Executive Director, Genesis Centre
With this expansion, the Genesis Centre continues to demonstrate its commitment to the community and its future. As Genesis Centre approaches its 15-year anniversary, the growth of the facility since opening in 2012 reflects its continued role as a staple of Northeast Calgary.
As the years continue, Genesis Centre will keep changing for generations to come. With more exciting plans ahead, the facility remains focused on creating spaces where families, residents, and community members can gather, play, connect, and thrive.
