The word “community” conjures up different things for everyone. To some, it’s an expanse of two or three blocks — the geography and the people in closest proximity to their home. To others, it’s a more nebulous group of like-minded people — a loose gathering of hobbyists or an obscure corner of Reddit where they can talk about hobbits to their heart’s content. And to some, it’s the name of an offbeat and addictive television show about a Spanish study group at a community college.
The elusiveness of an agreed-upon definition may partially explain why community-minded, volunteer-run organizations see their fortunes — and their support in the communities they aim to serve — rise and fall.
In Athabasca, the riverfront is a focus and a proving ground for many community groups.
The Rotary and Lions clubs have been busy augmenting the riverfront this summer. From the grand opening of the Children’s Heritage Playground to the installation of a brick walkway to the forthcoming outdoor exercise equipment, the riverfront has been a locus of community-minded activity. It’s a place where these clubs have seen the fruition of their efforts.
The riverfront has tested the mettle of other groups this summer. The Magnificent River Rats Festival, while clearly enjoyed by those who bought wristbands, was under-attended in the estimation of River Rats organizers. River Rats executive have said the festival may not continue without more volunteers, including some from the ranks of the town and county. For the executive, the riverfront has been the setting for both hard-won achievement and bitter disappointment.
You may not spend much time at the riverfront. You may note the improvements with a faint smile as you drive past but have no plans to pull up a lawn chair at River Rats or tone your quads on an outdoor elliptical. But each of us is a member of this community, and it is worth asking ourselves if we are giving community groups the support they deserve.
You may dismiss service groups as not your cup of tea. But think back to some of your fondest childhood memories — festivals, parades, dizzying merry-go-rounds. Chances are, a group of volunteers planned and created the events and places that most readily spring to mind.
Take some time to familiarize yourself with local community groups. Their reach goes beyond the riverfront, and the hand you give them will be appreciated.
