By Erika Gilbuena
For the Stettler Independent
In celebration of National Volunteer Week, the Town and County of Stettler held the annual Volunteer Appreciation event in recognition of the community’s volunteers.
Every year in April, Canada dedicates a week to acknowledge the 24 million volunteers all over the country.
This year, with the theme “Every Moment Matters,” Stettler Connects Information and Referral Centre, in partnership with the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, hosted a “A Seat At The Table” dinner to accompany the volunteer fair booths.
Various volunteers from different organizations such as Stettler and District Family & Community Support Services (FCSS), Stettler Adult Learning Centre (SALC), and Stettler District Agricultural Society (SAS) joined and funded the event.
One of the booths present was Stettler and District Home Support, which has over 30 groups that deliver “Meals on Wheels” which gives affordable and nutritious meals to seniors and disabled individuals right to their doorsteps.
Terri Visser, the program’s coordinator, extended her gratitude to the businesses and congregations that have supported the project over the years.
“Volunteering is so valuable. It has a ripple effect in the community. And any organization that speaks to your heart is where you should spend time,” said Stettler Adult Learning Literacy and Foundational Learning Coordinator Trista.
Pastor Teddy Joseph, joined by his church community, served spaghetti, cakes, and drinks for the evening.
The pastor said that it was a delightful event where the community came together to celebrate the spirit of camaraderie, and he hoped that it would not be the only year that the Seventh-Day Adventist Church would participate and co-organize the event.
“We appreciate all the volunteers and all their efforts, dedication, and commitment to making our community a better place,” said executive director of Stettler Connects Information and Referral Centre Lorraine Hankins when asked what she wanted to say to Stettler’s volunteers.
The night ended with closing remarks from Mayor Sean Nolls, who stated how most of the town projects were run by volunteers, which shows how valuable they are in the community.
“The reason we are called the Heart of Alberta is because of the way we treat people. It’s what amazes me about Stettler, cause everybody cares,” Nolls said.
As a part of the celebration, the organizers announced a free swim on Saturday, April 20, 2024.
