2010 Volunteer Advocate
story and photo by Carl Patzel
They could be that person taking your ticket, directing traffic, delivering that meal, filling a food hamper or just in the background making sure things run in a smooth fashion.
No matter in what they enlist, these volunteers ask for little recognition - whether they're sharing an hour as a companion, helping heal an injured animal, mentoring a youth, coaching a minor sport or even picking up a paint brush for some community beautification.
"Every day someone in Airdrie is volunteering to make a difference. They volunteer because they believe in the importance of helping their neighbours, supporting causes they believe in and contributing to their community," says Clay Aragon, City of Airdrie Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) co-ordinator.
Airdrionians had plenty to be proud of in 2009. Volunteer numbers exceeded expectations for several events, including the Airdrie centennial celebration, the Alberta 55 Plus Summer Games and the Airdrie Air Show.
"It is so important to recognize volunteers who willingly sacrifice their time and energy, dedicating themselves to vital services in the community," Aragon says.
That recognition came during the National Volunteer Week celebration and concluded April 21 with the Volunteers of the Year Awards ceremony. Residents were asked to nominate their friends and neighbours who are making a difference in the community by volunteering in some capacity.
Nominations were accepted in four categories: Airdrie Leader of Tomorrow - recognizing youths (aged 11 to 18) who have displayed leadership; Airdrie Ambassador - conferred upon an Airdrie business owner or entity that has contributed in promoting the city; Volunteer Advocate - given to a not-for-profit group which displays leadership and promotes volunteerism; and Soul of Airdrie - recognizing volunteer contributions in the fields of art and culture, athletics, social and community services.
Displaying their bright-red, pin-laden vests, Airdrie Lioness Club members were honoured with the Volunteer Advocate Award.
With 17 core members, the not-for-profit organization, formed in 1977, was celebrated for community leadership and playing an important part in the community spirit that has been instrumental in Airdrie’s success.
Airdrie Lioness Club members have been regular contributors in helping organize and participate at the Home and Garden Show, Airdrie Food Bank, blood donor clinics and the Christmas Adopt-a-Family program. Whether selling pies or dancing with Cedarwood Station residents, the Lionesses never shy away from a volunteer task.
"I volunteer with 16 absolutely amazing women. There are members [who] have been part of the Airdrie Lioness Club since its inception in 1977," says Glenda Alexander.
In 1986 the enthusiastic club took over the Christmas hamper program. Last year the members logged more than 2,400 volunteer hours, raising funds necessary to purchase supplies and distribute 206 Christmas hampers and 200 backpacks targeted for disadvantaged families in Airdrie.
"Often we get to times when we're just exhausted from the work that we do and we’re called upon to help out in the community again. It never fails," says Alexander. "I’m honoured to be part of this group."
Other groups nominated in the Advocate category were: Airdrie 2009 Alberta 55 Plus Summer Games Society, Airdrie RCMP detachment volunteers, Airdrie Rodeo Ranch Association and Bethany Airdrie.
Check back in August to read about our next Volunteer of the year at www.airdrielife.com
Airdrie-Calgary Transit
The Bus Stops Here. Transit service between Airdrie and Calgary becomes a reality.
Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation
Caring Community. AIWC's volunteers devote their time, effort to saving wildlife.
The Airdrie Farmer's Market
The Airdrie Farmers Market brings vendors and lovers of fresh home-grown goods together
For the Love of the Game
Chris Simnett comes out swinging, as he promotes the sport of tennis in his community
