
09 November . 2023
How the Residents' Association Creates a Stronger, More Connected Community
A healthy community is one that engages all its residents, giving them reasons to explore and connect beyond their own four walls. Our Residents’ Associations make this happen.
Here in Edmonton, Brookfield Residential communities are home to thriving Residents’ Associations (RAs). These RAs are professionally managed and operated not-for-profit companies which enhance belonging and elevate the overall quality of life for community residents. In The Orchards, Chappelle Gardens and Lake Summerside, the RAs are the heart of the community where everyone is welcome – and there’s something for all ages and abilities.
Residents’ Associations help run and upkeep the places where people gather and connect. The Orchards' Club House, a 12,000 sq. ft. facility, is complete with a banquet room and activity rooms where friends, neighbours and family members come together for everything from fundraisers to birthday parties to weddings. RAs also manage and maintain some fantastic outdoor places where people get together to enjoy good old fashioned play and recreation. In The Orchards this includes a seasonal splash park/pleasure rink for keeping cool in the summer or keeping busy in the winter, plus tennis courts and picnic areas.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Orchards community fosters a strong sense of belonging, ensuring that every member feels welcomed and valued.
The 2024 Diversity and Inclusion Calendar keeps track of days that may have special meaning for community residents, families and team members - religious and spiritual days of significance, cultural celebrations, awareness days and health promotion days.
Volunteer opportunities are available for those who want to contribute. Whether it is for school credit, or to see how you can get connected, email programs@orchardsra.ca.
Each RA also provides a wide variety of recreational programming for individuals, families and the whole community. They host special community events and have various spaces and facilities that residents can rent for parties, club meetings and special occasions. Because many of the RA employees also live in the communities they serve, they are passionate about making sure every program, activity or event brings neighbours together and fits their growing needs.
Residents can meet new friends at one of the many free community events, clubs or programs hosted throughout the year including book, wine and card clubs, cooking and art classes, movies in the park and more. Others stay active with things like sports clubs, fitness classes or karate lessons. For the kids, there’s everything from baby and toddler playgroups to dance classes, music lessons and engineering and coding classes to keep them playing, learning and growing.
All residents enjoy exclusive membership which provides access to awesome amenities, events and programs. With new things to do every season, all year-round, Brookfield Residential and their RAs are making sure that residents in these communities never fall short of ways to keep the whole family entertained, active and connected to neighbours.
You might be wondering what's covered by your Residents Association (RA) fees.
The Orchards Residents Association (RA) website includes the most up-to-date information, but here’s a quick overview.
What Your RA Fees Cover
1. Club House: Your RA fees let you pop into the Club House. This versatile space is a community hub. It’s where you meet your neighbours while having fun at special events and get-togethers.
2. Community engagement: Events at the Club House are also supported by your fees. The ROA organizes dance classes, art events, games and other special events. It’s all designed to build connections between residents and promote active living.
3. Park and amenities: The Orchards RA takes care of the park and various amenities within the community. These areas are thoughtfully designed to support healthy living and recreation.
Payment Options
Fees are due by January 1. You can pay online or at the Club House.
Get the latest fees and membership information by visiting the Resident Association website.
For New Home Owners
If you're new to The Orchards, welcome! We can’t wait to meet you and show you all the features that make it a great place to live.
If you haven't received your membership card yet, drop by the Club House to get one and take a tour.
To make things a little easier, download a copy of the New Homeowner Form. Fill out all information for every occupant of your home. Everyone 12 and older will get a membership card. Please bring proof of residency and a piece of photo ID when you come to the Club House to create your card.
If you have any further questions or need help with anything, processes mentioned above, get in touch with the Residents Association.