The family of Okanagan College鈥檚 first recreation and intramurals programmer in 1986, is giving back to the job he loved.

Alex Recsky, introduced thousands of students to sports and recreational opportunities during his 10 years with the college, until his retirement.

Now Recsky鈥檚 family is putting that same passion he had, behind a $30,000 donation to the Thrive Here campaign for the Recreation and Wellness Centre at OC鈥檚 琉璃神社 campus.

Recsky and his wife Ruth are currently in their 90s.

Keith, Recsky鈥檚 son, adds that his dad also worked and volunteered with many sports organizations and events since arriving in 琉璃神社 in 1985 and continued that practice well into retirement.

鈥淎ll four generations of our family have been involved with sports of all kinds in 琉璃神社, some more serious than others. Many of our most memorable moments come when we are at arenas, gyms, and outdoor spaces,鈥� said Kyle Recsky, Alex鈥檚 grandson.

According to the college, during Recsky鈥檚 tenure at the educational institution in the late 80s and early 鈥�90s, he was active in fundraising for a gymnasium for Okanagan University College, and one was built on the north campus in 1994. With the transition to two post-secondary institutions in 2005, the gym became part of UBC Okanagan and the need to build a gym at Okanagan College continues today.

Recognizing the need for a facility at OC, Cliff and Lois Serwa, honorary chairs for the Thrive Here campaign, are offering to up to $500,000.

鈥淢y parents have known Cliff and Lois for a long time. It鈥檚 not a secret that both families believe in supporting and giving back to the community. My mom and my dad are thrilled and humbled to be associated with the Serwas鈥� generous matching pledge for this needed project,鈥� said Keith.

Recsky and Lois Serwa were both honoured with the Queen鈥檚 Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002. The recognition is awarded to Canadians who make outstanding and exemplary contributions to their communities or Canada as a whole. For his service to students and the greater community, Recsky was also honoured with OUC鈥檚 first Distinguished Service Award in 2003.

The Okanagan College Foundation has raised $9 million towards its $14 million campaign goal to build a Recreation and Wellness Centre.

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