The Norwegian Laft Hus Society

The Norwegian Laft Hus Society began in 1974 as "The Norwegian Club of Central Alberta." By 1981 it had evolved into the "Norwegian Laft Hus Society" when its building project was underway and it received registration as non-profitable, charitable organization. It is managed by an elected nine-member Board of Directors and over one hundred members, many of whom are active volunteers in the society. Management meetings, which are open to all members and interested visitors, are held monthly at the Laft Hus. Membership in the Society is not restricted to those of Norwegian birth or descent, but open to the general public. The requirement for membership is an interest in preserving NOrwegian culture and assisting the society to fulfull its responsibilities to the community.

The Mission of the Norwegian Laft Hus Society

The Laft Hus is a centre for the preservation, interpretation and study relating to life and culture of Norwegian-Canadians. As such it instills in Canadians of all ethnic backgrounds an awareness of the great diversity in their cultural heritage and enables Norwegian-Canadians to see, to understand, and to appreciate their place in the mosaic of Canadian culture.

Funding for Norwegian Laft Hus Society

Like many non-profit associations in the country, funding for major operating costs is raised through the sponsorship of gaming events. Early in its history financial support for research and cultural programs were received from Alberta Culture. The Alberta Cultural Heritage Foundation and Alberta Recreation Parks Department awarded grants towards partial capital costs of the Laft Hus project. A committee of interested society seniors established a committee of the society to build furnishings and purchase needed items for programs. They received financial assistance from Health & Welfare Canada's New Horizon grant program. Alberta Museums Association and Canada Heritage have also financially assisted the society. The society raises funds through a popular two day fall Craft & Bake Sale, membership fees, bequests and donations and several smaller events. To keep fees as low as possible, most programs offered to the public are subsidized by the society and budgeted on a break-even basis.

The most significant contribution to the society has been many years of continuous volunteer interest, involvement and support.