One of Turner Valley's most prolific volunteers has the potential to outshine others across Alberta, according to testimonies from many who know her.
Turner Valley Town council and administration put Maureen Nelson’s name forward for the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards in the senior category in recognition of her 15 years of service on various committees and her ongoing commitment to her community.
“Since I’ve been on council, Maureen has always been on committees and offered her expertise and institutional knowledge, and has always been a supporter of new councillors bringing new energy into the chambers and reinvigorating things on committees,” said Mayor Barry Crane, who put Nelson's name forward for the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards.
“Her dedication supersedes all of council's when it comes to community commitment and time served. She’s just a great lady and well deserving of the award. The Town is appreciative of all of her efforts.”
The awards recognize extraordinary Albertans whose volunteer efforts contributed to the well-being of their community and fellow citizens. Awards are given annually to two youth, two adults and two seniors on or around International Volunteer Day, which falls on Dec. 5.
Nominees have to exemplify the spirit of community service, serve as a role model, inspire others to engage in volunteer service, improve the overall quality of life for fellow Albertans and demonstrate exemplary initiative, leadership and creativity in their service to others.
Monique LeBlanc, Turner Valley community services and business development manager, said Nelson is a wealth of knowledge with extensive experience in many facets of life, particularly in her municipal committee work.
“I have lots of experience dealing with Maureen and she’s an absolute delight,” she said.
The nomination form tells of Nelson’s unwavering support for the Town, as well as her enthusiasm and commitment to making Turner Valley a better place.
Nelson, who announced her retirement from municipal boards in August, served on the Municipal Planning Commission for 12 years as vice-chair, where she was involved in making decisions related to planning and development.
The committee serves as an advisory group to the municipal government on issues and policies related to land use regulations, planning matters and community development.
“She was a conduit to engaging and educating the public in a process that is often intimidating and confusing,” the nomination form states. “Her efforts were a huge contributor to improvements in process and community engagement.”
For four years, Nelson served as chair on the Waterworks Advisory Committee, an advisory arm of the regional Sheep River Utility Corporation. This followed Nelson's involvement in the last two water appeals wherein she was granted Intervenor Status.
“She led the committee through its inaugural years applying her extensive knowledge of governance and policy to firmly establish the group as a respected public voice,” the form states.
Nelson was also a member of the Parks, Pathways and Recreation Advisory Committee for four years, which focuses on recreation projects within Turner Valley.
Her other pursuits include playing a large role in developing Turner Valley’s first tourist booth and visitor services program, volunteering at the High Country Lodge in Black Diamond, serving as a member of the Turner Valley Oilfield Society and serving as the first citizen volunteer on the founding group for the now defunct Calgary Regional Partnership.
According to the nomination form, Nelson dedicated around 480 hours annually to community development, planning and public engagement activities.
“Ms. Nelson is considered a community ambassador and liaison, taking the initiative to inform and engage the public on matters related to the community,” the form states. “She generously shares her time and experience with those curious about municipal government volunteer opportunities. Her tenacity to seek the truth and defend it inspires many to engage more fully in their community.”
The Turner Valley resident of 23 years said she’s honoured to be nominated for the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Awards.
“I’m humbled that council nominated me because I really feel there are so many volunteers in this area,” she said.
Nelson, who attended almost every council meeting for the last 19 years, has worked with several town planners and five councils during her volunteer pursuits.
“My whole point is to try and make things better and to get the truth and facts out,” she said. “You can blame my grandma for that. She taught us truth and honesty.”
Nelson said she made the decision to step down from her Town commitments to take time for herself to spend with family, including her two-year-old great granddaughter Ava, and to return to her hobby of painting.
She intends to leave an opening for new, younger people to get involved in the community.
“If you love this community get involved with what really goes on,” she said. “Learn about your community and chip in where you can.”
