"Parksyde is effectively run by its users. This is what makes it such a success story as there is no other centre like it in the country, effectively operating on a small door charge for attendance," Parksyde manager Robyn Skelton said in a statement.
Run by the Older Persons Community Centre Trust, Parksyde's day celebrated the launch of Petanque for Seniors and a brand-new funding initiative with the launch of a petanque court.
The Parksyde Fund was launched by chairman Peter Fitchett.
An endowment fund administered by the Geyser Community Foundation; the Parksyde Fund is an opportunity to ensure Parksyde keeps delivering activities and opportunities for social interaction for the future.
"We are thrilled to launch the Parksyde Fund," Fitchett said.
"It is a powerful and much-needed funding mechanism to help us keep supporting Rotorua's older people. Donations are gratefully accepted by anyone.
"It is also a wonderful way for any Parksyde user to show their support."
Contributions can be made via donations, bequests and endowments in a will.
Once the fund reaches a certain amount, the interest earned is returned to Parksyde.
Currently, Parksyde relies heavily on grants.
Geyser's chairwoman Helene Phillips said the foundation was honoured to have been chosen by the Older Persons Community Centre Trust to manage the fund.
"Community foundations such as Geyser are independent, not-for-profit organisations, and are the fastest growing form of philanthropy in the world," Phillips said.
For details on the Parksyde Fund, see the Parksyde website www.parksyde.org.nz
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