Share this Story : Sherwood Park News Copy Link Email X Reddit Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Breadcrumb Trail Links News Volunteer Strathcona celebrates 50 years of community service Author of the article: Trent Wilkie Published Sep 22, 2026 • 1 minute read Join the conversation Executive director of Volunteer Strathcona, Wendy Bouwman Oake presented to the Sherwood Park and District Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, April 24, discussing the evolving trends in local volunteerism.

Lindsay Morey/News Staff jpg, SP, apsmc Article content Volunteer Strathcona is celebrating 50 years of supporting local volunteers, non-profit organizations and community programs in Strathcona County. Advertisement 2 Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content According to a release from Volunteer Strathcona, the organization was founded after members of the Kinette Club of Sherwood Park identified a need for an information and volunteer centre and worked to establish one.

The centre, then known as IVC, opened its doors on Oct. 1, 1976. Article content Recommended Videos We apologize, but this video has failed to load. Try refreshing your browser, or tap here to see other videos from our team.

Volunteer Strathcona celebrates 50 years of community service Back to video We apologize, but this video has failed to load. Try refreshing your browser, or tap here to see other videos from our team. Play Video Article content For many years, the organization served as a community information hub, helping residents find programs, services and volunteer opportunities.

As the internet and 211 services reduced the need for a traditional information centre, Volunteer Strathcona shifted its focus toward supporting non-profit organizations, volunteers and community initiatives. The organization has helped connect older adults with programs including SnowBusters, LawnBusters, Meals on Wheels and transportation through Drive Happiness.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, volunteer support programs were expanded to assist residents unable to leave their homes. Volunteer Strathcona has also led volunteer recognition and youth engagement initiatives over the years, including campaigns designed to highlight the contributions volunteers make throughout the community.

Advertisement 3 Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content The organization says much of its work happens behind the scenes, helping community groups recruit volunteers, access resources and pursue their missions. To mark the milestone, Volunteer Strathcona is inviting residents to a 50th-anniversary celebration Sept. 26 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Festival Place.

The free event will feature refreshments, activities hosted by community organizations, prize draws and a 50/50 fundraiser supporting the organization’s future work. Organizers hope the event will celebrate not only Volunteer Strathcona’s history, but also the many community organizations and volunteers that have helped shape Strathcona County over the past five decades.

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