Community pride came under the spotlight at Wednesday’s Volunteer Appreciation and Awards Night
It was underlined by a showing of the Community of Barrhead promotional video and a presentation of the Communities in Bloom project by Parks and Recreation Director Sue Keenan.
Introducing the video, volunteer committee chair Jenny Bruns said it had been filmed by Edmonton-based Frame 30 and gave a perspective of Barrhead from the outside looking in.
“Sometimes pictures speak louder than words,” she said of the video, which shows a series of scenes of Barrhead with only musical accompaniment.
Bruns said she found the video inspiring, since it was brimming with fun and happiness.
“I think it is a fitting celebration to show our community what we can do and what our volunteers can bring to a community because of your efforts and the many partnerships that are created,” she added, pointing to organizations like Barrhead’s municipalities, the Ag Society, the Agrena Society and the FCSS.
Keenan said her department came into constant contact with volunteers and depended on them.
“There’s absolutely no way we can do what we do without them,” said Keenan.
“So from my department and all the people involved in recreation in this community, thank you very much. It really truly is appreciated.”
Keenan said last year’s successful Alberta 55-plus Summer Games provided a good springboard into another initiative – Communities in Bloom – which is about enhancing community pride in the region.
Communities in Bloom, said Keenan, is a volunteer-based, Canadian non-profit organization committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility, beautification, and improving the quality of life through community participation and the opportunity to participate in a national program.
Keenan said benefits of involvement in the program ranged from decreased vandalism to marketing and promotional opportunities and greater environmental awareness and stewardships.
“This truly is a grassroots approach to building our communities together one project at a time,” she said. Keenan said the local contest in the program would be launched in June, with provincial judges due to show up in July.
All those registering in the program will receive this placard, said Keenan, holding one up. “Our hope and our goal this year is that we get at least 200 participants,” she said.
“And that we grow year after year. It’s a fun event and I encourage all of you to participate.”
“I look forward to seeing you out there, planting this summer,” she added.
