Good food, sincere thanks for a job well done and impromptu entertainment were the highlights of a special volunteer recognition evening.
Around 200 people crowded into the Rimbey Community Centre to attend the 15th annual volunteer event held April 22.
Master of ceremonies Mayor Sheldon Ibbotson said Rimbey and the surrounding area has more than 100 non-profit organizations volunteers work with.
“Without them, we wouldn’t be the community we are today,” he said. “They are selfless individuals who demonstrate their genuine compassion for the well-being of others and support essential causes by taking action and by making a difference.”
Annand Ollivierre from Volunteer Alberta came from Edmonton to attend the event.
“I am grateful to be here,” he said. “Volunteer recognition is one of the pillars of any community.”
Ollivierre suggested recognizing people individually to show them they are appreciated as well as thanking them in public as ways to keep volunteerism alive and well in any community.
He also noted volunteerism needs to remain fun for volunteers to continue to stay active and involved.
Keith Beebe, division 5 Ponoka County councillor, noted volunteers are responsible for the longevity of the rural halls in the county. “Without these people, those halls would have to shut down.”
Paul McLaughlin, the division 4 councillor, congratulated the community on its volunteer base. “The volunteerism we have right here in this room is amazing. Thank you.”
Alberta volunteers contribute 139 million hours annually — the equivalent of 76,000 full time year-round jobs. Nearly 40 per cent of Albertans volunteer.
In a congratulatory letter, Blaine Calkins, MP for Wetaskiwin, said volunteers rarely boast about their achievements.
“They go about their day helping those that are in need; those that require assistance; they serve on community boards and committees; these unsung heroes make the lives of all Canadians better.”
Following the speeches, volunteer Wendy Finlay entertained on the piano with a delightful rendition of old-time music.
The volunteer committee that sponsored the appreciation night was composed of Mary Busch, Barry Nesbitt, Laine Dahms, Dan Donald, Cheryl Jones, Irene Steeves, Peggy Makofka, Pat Muddle, Diane McCallum and Anita Goetz.
The evening’s events were supported by the Town of Rimbey, Rimbey Fish & Game, Central Alberta Health Services, Rimbey & District Horticulture Committee, Rimoka Foundation, Rimbey FCSS/RCHHS, Volunteer Alberta, Rimbey an District Drop In, Rimbey Sleigh Wagon & Saddle Club, Hoadley Happy Gang and Blindman Handi-Van Society.