Northern Sunrise County and Village of Nampa are hosting a Volunteer Appreciation Barbeque on May 26 to recognize the many people who help to make the communities better places to live.
“Hosting an annual BBQ is our way to show appreciation for our volunteers in the communities,” says Northern Sunrise County Community Support Services director Amber Houle.
“It provides an opportunity to recognize and thank volunteers for their time and efforts, making them feel valued and increasing the likelihood that they will continue volunteering,” she adds.
“The event also helps build a stronger sense of community by bringing volunteers, staff, and community members together in a relaxed setting.”
The barbeque will be held at Cecil Thompson Park from 5-7 p.m., and will feature a meal, live music and door prizes.
“This year, we wanted to have a centralized location because we recognize that whenever we host it in a specific community, generally just the people from those communities attend,” explains Houle.
“We felt like we weren’t capturing our full volunteer group population.
“We also decided to bump our volunteer appreciation barbeque to May, to be able to attract the farmers after seeding.”
Houle explains volunteers are an integral part of every community, and they help to foster a sense of comfort in the community they are part of.
“This event is a celebration of all levels of volunteerism, recognizing the time, energy, and kindness that strengthen our community,” Houle notes.
“No matter how big or small the contribution, every act of generosity deserves appreciation, and we look forward to honouring those who help make our community a better place.”
Houle says all volunteers are welcome to attend, whether they are people who help their neighbours shovel sidewalks or someone who sits on a community board. She says it is important to recognize everyone for their contribution to their community.
“We welcome everyone who has positively contributed to their community over the past year, along with their family members, to attend,” Houle says.
“Whether you have volunteered as a coach, served on a local board, cleared snow from walkways for neighbours, or offered companionship to those in need, your efforts make a difference.”
This year, the barbecue will feature live music from local musician Joel Lavoie.
Houle adds local fire halls will be volunteering to barbeque the food for attendees. She says having first responders and local firefighters at the event allows residents to connect with those who serve and protect them, fostering trust, appreciation, and a stronger sense of community.
Houle encourages people to attend the Volunteer Appreciation Barbeque to celebrate and recognize the contributions of the people who have made a difference in the community. She asks everyone who wishes to attend to please registers for the event so that they make sure to have enough tables, chairs, and food available for everyone who attends.
To register or for more information, please call (780) 625-3287.
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter