Embark has donated $500,000 to the University of Lethbridge's R.E.C. Rooms initiative. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

U of L to receive $500K donation for recreation rooms

Mar 12, 2024 | 8:44 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A company known for managing Registered Education Savings Plans (RESP) is making a sizable donation to the University of Lethbridge (U of L).

Embark will give $500,000 to the university’s R.E.C. Rooms: Refresh, Energize & Connect initiative.

The R.E.C. Rooms are spaces throughout the U of L’s campuses where students can relax, play games, and make friends. Each features amenities and activities such as arts and crafts, cards, puzzles, ping pong, Jenga, giant chess, Mario Kart, and comfy seating.

Embark cited research from the National Library of Medicine in the U.S. that shows students with higher levels of physical activity, leisure time, and commuting with peers tend to have better mental health scores. As well, 40 per cent of Canadian post-secondary students said they seriously considered dropping out of school due to stress caused by school.

The U of L said the R.E.C. Room initiative is part of a broader campus strategy to increase student flourishing.

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There are six R.E.C. Room locations:

• University Hall (UHall) Atrium
• Markin Hall Atrium
• Science Commons: level 6
• Galileo’s: SU Building food court
• ULethbridge Library: level 10
• Calgary Campus: Room S6027

The U of L was one of seven grant recipients of the Embark Student Foundation Major Grant Program, as they gave a total of $2.7 million to schools across Canada.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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