Almost $75,000 has been distributed to Nanaimo organizations thanks to the 55+ BC Games legacy funds, after playing host to the games in September. (Image Credit: File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Jordan Davidson

giving back

55+ BC Games gives over $70,000 to Nanaimo organizations

Mar 23, 2026 | 12:06 PM

NANAIMO — A major economic boost is being felt locally, thanks to the Harbour City playing host to a major sporting event last fall.

The 55+ BC Games took place in Nanaimo in September, where over 2,700 athletes competed in 21 sports over four days, using 20 different venues across the region.

Organizers recently announced they’re distributing over $74,000 in surplus operating revenue, to ten different organizations across the mid-Island, to help promote and encourage an active and healthy lifestyle for those aged 55 and over.

Priority was given to those who helped make the Nanaimo games successful.

They include Nanaimo Fish and Game for the purchase of new archery targets for a 55+ program, equipment upgrades for Nanaimo United FC and the Parksville Curling Club, and a donation to the BC Cancer Centre Nanaimo.

downgraded charge

Nanaimo woman fined after fatal 2024 collision at Woodgrove Centre

2h ago

special group

Bleary-eyed Mariners return to Nanaimo as national champions

36m ago

giving back

55+ BC Games gives over $70,000 to Nanaimo organizations

3h ago

The 55+ BC Games release didn’t specify how much each organization would receive, saying each amount ranges from $4,950-$10,000.

Nanaimo mayor Leonard Krog (front, second from left) with the recipients of $74,376, distributed to ten different local groups from the 55+ BC Games Society. (Image Credit: 55+ BC Games Society)

President of the Nanaimo 2025 55+ BC Games Host Society Diana Johnstone, said hosting the games was a great opportunity to showcase our community.

“We are thrilled to share the Games’ legacy funds with so many local groups who are using this support to invest in capital projects, replace equipment, and make it easier and more accessible for people of all ages and abilities to stay active.”

The 2026 55+ BC Games takes place from Sept. 8-12 in Kamloops.

Subscribe to our daily news wrap. Local news delivered to your email inbox every evening. Stay up to date on everything Nanaimo and Oceanside.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

Follow us on: Twitter (X) | Bluesky | Facebook