Programs - Community Leadership
CDS promotes community leadership! We are profiling residents who have made a vital contribution to their rural community within the Western County of Rocky View. These people exemplify passion and commitment to their community.Meet community leaders...
Geoff Elliott
There is only one word that describes Geoff Elliott -- AMAZING.
As an avid volunteer, he does not differentiate between "volunteering" and simply living out his daily life.
Geoff has been a resident of Springbank for the past 18 years and is the founding chairperson of the Communities Development Society.
As a retired Professor of Kinesiology of the University of Alberta, he was originally hired in the 1980's to manage the building of the Olympic Oval. As a former international athlete Geoff believes in the importance of maintaining physical well-being throughout one's life and has been involved on a long list of many sports and recreation organizations and committees.
He is currently serving on the Kerby Centre Board of Directors (a 60 plus seniors’ resource center), has served on ElderNet Calgary, and volunteers at the Children Hospital.
Geoff also continues to serve as an "anchor" to the rural seniors housing committee. Having been involved since it started 4 years ago Geoff is known as the champion of "universal accessibility" (housing design with the mobility limited person in mind). Geoff loves the dynamics of meetings and never seems to tire of adding his voice and wisdom to the conversation.
Thank-you Geoff for bringing your dedication and sense of humor to our lives!
Erin Butters
Fifth generation cattle rancher, Erin Butters, has an undeniable passion for ranching. As a young child she worked her parent's cattle ranch in the Beaupre area and is continuing the ranching lifestyle with her children, Katie and Sam. "It's intrinsic to who I am," says Butters about ranching, "it's something that I can not imagine being apart [from]". Growing urbanization has impacted the MD of Rocky View. "This road used to be lined with working ranches, but very few people make a living off of ranching in this area anymore." explains Butters. "It's more than a job or an occupation, it is a way of life, something that's in our blood".
While saddened by the recent developments, she is still committed to her community. Erin, her husband, Darcy Scott, and neighbor Hamish Kerfoot, saw a need for reestablishing community concerts. "I remember there were three or four [concerts] a year when I was a kid" recalls Butters, "but [now] not everyone is excited about them and our entertainment is farther a-field". The Live at Beaupre Concert Series has been a great success, with three concerts a year and ongoing support from community members. Money left over from the dances is given to various charities. "The stress is gone when people support it!" and 'it is cool when you bring community together in the sprit of music!'
Erin's love for the ranching life is infectious as she promotes her appreciation of open spaces, treasures the past and celebrates community connection. The rural spirit is alive and well.Make sure to check Erin's Video coming soon!
Photo Credit: Debbie Olsen (http://www.eggs.ab.ca/news/WOYPPDF2007/What's_Plate_Jan21.pdf)
Do you know someone who is making a difference in your community that we can profile in upcoming newsletters and our website?
| 1. Open the nomination form! | 2. Save to your computer and fill it out! | 3. Click the Submit button and attach your completed form! |
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