Board Report

The latest census shows that Shawnessy is home to more than 3,000 households and over 6,000 residents aged 25 and older. Yet, despite these numbers, our Community Association struggles to maintain even a dozen volunteers on the Board of Directors.

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There was a time when Shawnessy was growing quickly, new homes, roads, and shopping centres were taking shape, and residents felt inspired to get involved. Annual General Meetings were well attended, and volunteers eagerly stepped forward to help shape the neighbourhood they called home.

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Over the past 10 to 15 years, however, community engagement has steadily declined. Today, it is the same small group of dedicated volunteers who keep the Community Association running. These individuals deserve our deepest gratitude; they attend Board meetings, organize Family Day celebrations and the Stampede party at the Barn, maintain the rinks, and ensure our facilities remain clean, safe, and functional.

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One of our most important fundraising initiatives, the Casino event held every 18 months, provides the essential funding needed to sustain the Barn, maintain the rink site, host community events, and support local Scouting and Guiding groups. Yet this, too, depends on just a handful of people giving their time.

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Every winter, we hear concerns about rink conditions, often from residents who may not realize that volunteers do every inch of maintenance. These dedicated individuals spend countless evenings and weekends making sure the rink is safe and ready for the community to enjoy. When asked to help, the most common answer we hear is, “I’m too busy.”

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We understand, life is full. But community doesn’t thrive without participation. The Barn and rink site were built through casino funds, grants, and volunteer labour. Without ongoing support, these spaces and events will not be sustainable.

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One simple way to help is by becoming a Community Association member. A family membership costs just $20 per year, yet out of 3,000 homes, fewer than 20 households are currently members. Imagine what we could achieve if more people got involved.

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This is not a message of frustration; it’s a heartfelt call to action. The volunteers who have kept Shawnessy’s Community Association alive cannot do it alone. If even a small fraction of our 6,000 adult residents stepped up, we could do incredible things together.

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If you have even a little time to give back to our community, please reach out to me or any Board member. Your involvement—big or small—will make a real and lasting difference.

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