A large crowd turned out to pay tribute to the volunteers honoured with awards at Barrhead’s annual volunteer appreciation awards dinner, held at Barrhead Elementary School April 26.
Among the recipients were Grade 11 Barrhead Composite High School (BCHS) student Lisa Grossenbacher, The Barrhead Farm Women’s Day committee, retired teacher and art instructor Geraldine Kruse and long-time food bank volunteer Sue Boborosky.
In addition to the awards ceremonies, local musicians Blind Dog Revival provided entertainment throughout the evening and were supported by Barrhead Rotary Music Festival winner Brenna Bourgeois, 9, and Edmonton-resident Tea Gonzales, ATB’s Homegrown Talent Stage winner at the 2016 Big Valley Jamboree.
Gonzales is the youngest winner of the concert series to date.
Event organizer Ros Rudd said volunteers are the backbone of the community.
“It is important to notice their efforts,” she said, adding volunteers deserve recognition because they serve as role models for children.
“Lisa Grossenbacher, Sue Boborosky, Tammy Caughlin, Geraldine Kruse and the women who are part of the Barrhead Farm Women’s Day committee, what you have done in your lives is truly amazing. You have been recognized as the crčme de la crčme. There is no greater honour,” Rudd said.
126 groups and 5,179 individuals in the area donated more than 322,380 hours in the service of others last year, she explained, adding in her opinion, it is reason enough to celebrate.
Although Alberta Premier Rachel Notley could not be in attendance, she sent a congratulatory letter on behalf of the province read by emcee Rebecca Nikkel.
“I commend each volunteer being honoured tonight,” Notley wrote, adding their compassion and dedication has contributed to building a stronger community.
“I hope you take great pride in not only serving the residents of this community, but in the role you play as a mentor to encourage and inspire. Through your commitment to the people and the community of Barrhead, you are helping to build a stronger and more compassionate Alberta,” she added.
