While many may remember the Alberta Flood of 2013 for its devastation, the loss and damage to homes, and the displacement of so many fellow Albertans, undoubtedly the strongest memories for all will be the sense of community and caring felt as communities came together to volunteer, donate, and assist in recovery. The Town of Chestermere has seen firsthand the sheer generosity of spirit as residents have organized groups to collect goods, volunteered in cleanup efforts in Calgary and the surrounding area, and sent their support in any way possible to those affected. Whether it is the donation of hygiene products from businesses, collection bins for goods made available at schools, or parents sorting donations with their children, never have we seen so many people willing to volunteer and share their many blessings with others. While Community Services has fielded dozens of calls with questions of what is needed for the hardest hit areas, we have also had the chance to visit several areas including Blackie, High River, Redwood Meadows and Morley to assist in Emergency Management and provide relief to those exhausted by days of valiant volunteerism efforts. What we have seen can only be described as the epitome of resiliency and the pure exemplification of the power of will found in Albertans.
At this time the most important thing is to listen to the needs communicated from affected areas.
Many flood damaged areas are still overwhelmed with meeting the basic needs of flood victims. As time goes on donation needs may change, but coordinated donations, targeted on what people really need as they return to their homes, is vital.
It is so important to maintain this momentum of generosity and support over the next weeks and months. The effects of the flood will likely be felt for years to come, and it is especially important to remember the continued needs of smaller communities, in particular, as media coverage wanes and the full impact of the devastation becomes a memory as opposed to a daily reminder.
For more information on how you can continue to help with relief efforts, and for all other volunteer opportunities in Chestermere and area, visit www.truesynergy.ca or @synergyinvolved. Synergy is the main portal for volunteer opportunities in Chestermere and area working to increase volunteer engagement in Chestermere through a volunteer opportunity database, support services, volunteer recognition and more, with the support of community sponsors and collaborations.
The Town of Chestermere has had an emergency management team and strategy in place for the past several years that acts as the first response for disasters in Chestermere and assistance to neighboring communities. If you are interested in being a part of the Chestermere Emergency Management Agency (CHEMA) Emergency Social Services Team to receive training in emergency assistance and be available as a volunteer, please contact Community Services at 403-207-7060.
On behalf of Synergy, Community Services and the Town of Chestermere, we would like to thank you for your support and generosity during this time. You make us proud to be Albertans!
