Residents of Ābeļciems Create Modern Recreation Area on Their Own
Active residents of Ābeļciems in Pelču parish have established a recreational area with a shelter, children's playground, sports zone, and fire pit, using project funding and community effort.
Community initiative
Residents of Ābeļciems in Pelču parish have taken the initiative to build a recreational area for all ages. The space now includes a shelter with a terrace for community gatherings, a children's playground, an exercise area, a basketball hoop, football goals, a fire pit, and benches. The idea was born ten years ago when children started being born in the village, but support from the municipality was not forthcoming.
Projects and funding
The residents utilized support from the association "Darīsim paši!" and the Rural Support Service (LAD). Four projects were implemented in total: two small ones through the "Darīsim paši" competition (€800 for fencing and site preparation, €1000 for landscaping and a path) and two LAD LEADER projects (€29,500 for an active recreation area and €25,000 for a terrace). Project coordinators Linda Silvestrova, Uģis Martinsens, Undīne and Gatis Rautiņš note that most of the work was done by themselves, with co-financing from the municipality.
Resident contributions
To kick off the project, residents quickly gathered, created a WhatsApp group, and collected around 70% support in a survey. Initially they used the existing association "Mēs Pelčiem", later founding "Ābeļu ciema kopiena, kopā varam!" in November. Work was divided according to abilities – some contributed physical labor, others donations. Uģis Martinsens provided tractor machinery, the family of Mārča Vētrājs donated thuja trees. Basketballs and footballs were purchased from association funds. 13-year-old Filips Rautiņš, who enjoys basketball, helped carry water and stones and mow grass. The terrace was built with a solid wall to facilitate movie nights.
