Nearly 200 volunteers took in dinner and a night of entertainment at volunteer appreciation night last week.
On Thursday, April 28, volunteers from more than eight Town of Westlock organizations, including the Westlock and District Food Bank, FCSS and fire department gathered at the Rotary Spirit Centre for the town’s annual volunteer appreciation night.
Mayor Ralph Leriger tipped his cap to the countless volunteers that make the community great.
“Just a huge thank you … without them the community is just not the same,” he said.
This year, organizers say about 190 volunteers attended the 100th anniversary picnic-themed event held on the arena floor.
Following the meal, volunteers were encouraged to mingle while playing games like table tennis, jacks and plinko. At the same time they answered town-trivia questions which were good for tickets to win door prizes.
Leriger said providing supper and a night out is the least the municipality can do.
“People don’t volunteer for recognition, but at the same time it’s important to thank them very much and to have fun together,” Leriger said.
“I think our staff has done a great job each of the last three years to come up with a new theme and something fun for everyone to do together.
“That enthusiasm, especially in a year like our 100th anniversary is really beneficial.”
CAO Dean Krause also noted the importance of volunteers that provide services within the municipality.
“Volunteers and non-profit groups are key to the community. They take a lot of the workload off of the town,” Krause said.
Leriger simply said volunteers are what make the community great.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of every community,” he said.
“If I look in our little guide, Westlock has something like 55 or 60 non-profit organizations. Those are all run by volunteers and the provide a huge range of services to people.”
