GIVING BACK TO OUR COMMUNITIES
I believe strong communities are built by people who are willing to step up, get involved and give back.
Since becoming part of the Alma community, I have immersed myself in local life and looked for meaningful ways to bring people together. I have served many roles in the Optimist Club such as Treasurer, Director and even President of the Alma Optimist Club and I continue to be actively involved in its work supporting local youth, families and community initiatives. I was honoured to be nominated by my fellow Optimist members for a Community Stein Club Membership in recognition of my commitment to community service in 2021.
Through the Alma Optimist Club, I have helped organize and support events and initiatives that bring people together, including community BBQs, the Santa Claus Parade, youth activities, fundraising events and other local programming. I believe these events are about more than simply having fun—they create connections and help build a strong sense of community.
I have served as a member and Chair of our local elementary school’s Parent Council, working alongside parents, educators and volunteers to support fundraising initiatives and to improve the experience of local students. My community involvement has included working with the Alma Community Recreation Association to help bring new recreational opportunities to the community, including a $25,000 investment in new swings for the local park and I have been a volunteer with Mapleton Minor Soccer.
I am proud to support Girl Guides and the opportunities they provide for girls and young women to develop confidence, leadership skills, independence and a strong connection to their community. Investing in young people and creating opportunities for them to learn, grow and become involved is an important part of building a stronger future for Mapleton. I have proudly worked with local leaders of the Alma Guiding Unit to help support the young ladies through recognition and celebration of their Canada Cord Award (for graduating guiders). During the year I have had the honor of speaking to youth about the importance of my roles in volunteerism and leadership within our communities.
I am currently a volunteer board member with Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington, supporting its work to promote safer communities and encouraging residents to play an active role in keeping their communities safe. Since becoming your municipal councillor I sit as a member of the Wellington County Farm Safety Association as well as part of the Economic Development Committee.
What matters most to me is showing up. Whether organizing an event, supporting local youth, working on a community project, volunteering behind the scenes or simply helping bring neighbours together, I believe every contribution makes a difference.
I thrive on optimism and believe Mapleton is at its best when people work together. My commitment to volunteering reflects the same approach I will bring to public service: listen, get involved, work collaboratively and find ways to make a positive difference.
For me, community isn’t just where you live, it’s something you help build.
