WESTLOCK — The countless hours, time, energy, and effort that volunteers give, are often the biggest difference makers in a community.
The Town of Westlock celebrated volunteers this week by hosting a free community barbecue April 16 at the Rotary Spirit Centre, where they honoured the people who contribute to the community in a variety of ways, through organizations, groups and events.
One of those groups is the Westlock Community Events Committee (WCEC), first established in 2022 as a way to facilitate more community events and activities and promote community participation. Today the committee consists of four community members, a Westlock and District Chamber of Commerce representative, a Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) representative, and representatives from the town’s economic development department and administration. The committee also works closely with staff from parks and open spaces, and public works.
"We have generous business sponsors and community organizations whose participation is key to the success of these events. We are focused on free, family, fun that is inclusive and accessible,” said committee chair, Laura Morie, noting some of the events volunteers help with include Family Day hayrides, the Easter egg hunt, Canada Day activities, Movie in the Park, the Halloween Haunted House and the Christmas Light Up event.
Although volunteerism took a hit during the pandemic, noted Town of Westlock Mayor Jon Kramer, it is encouraging to see more volunteers step up to the plate and give back.
“We’re really seeing a resurgence because I know everybody has this desire to get back together, to be around each other and volunteering is just the most incredible way to do that,” said Kramer.
He highlighted the positive impact volunteering had in his family growing up and during his time in Westlock, and added that volunteering is a great way to meet new people and contribute to the community you live in.
“With volunteering, the idea is (about) giving but everybody’s who been a volunteer knows you get more in return than you actually give out,” he said, noting many ways that volunteers make a difference with the town’s events that provide “free family fun … that is so key to our community.”
“I think we’re really headed in the right direction as a community and a lot of thanks goes to the folks that do give their time and energy,” said Kramer.
Morie added that volunteers of all ages are always welcome.
“Volunteers put the "live" in livability for community. They are priceless and we look forward to their continuing participation.”
