Marking an ideal way to learn about all kinds of ways to be more community-minded, the annual Fall Active Living Fair is coming up on Sept. 11 at the Lacombe Memorial Centre.
Doors open at 4 p.m. and the event, hosted by the Lacombe Lifelong Learning Association, runs through to 7:30 p.m.
“It is going to be an afternoon/evening for people to come and find our what is happening throughout the community," said Dani Ducross, executive director of the association.
"It's our biggest event like this in Lacombe - we have a similar one in the spring, but this one really brings a lot of people out and a lot of different participants. We have everything from the Lacombe Performing Arts Centre to Coffee With Council. The City of Lacombe will be there to do a survey on the Community Needs Assessment as well."
There will also be music groups, craft groups, and lots of activity and sports groups on site to share about their organizations and upcoming events.
Many local volunteer opportunities will be highlighted as well for those looking to serve either on an ongoing basis - like with a board or an organization - or to lend a hand for a particular, one-time event, said Ducross.
"We are going to make it fun and interactive, too. There will be door prizes - basically, we pre-set numbers on a grid, and I have a person designated to count those walking in. If you are number 32 for example, you win a door prize," she said.
This year marks the event’s 44th anniversary. Over the decades, it has grown to become a signature event of the association.
There will also be demonstrations, including RISE Aerial; and a bake sale will be set up, too.
“There are programs for the little ones, for seniors, for moms and dads, for teenagers, and for pets! There is a lot to come and check out.
"I'm a very firm believer that staying active - physically or mentally, along with getting out and feeling like you are a part of something is really important for a good mental health space," said Ducross, adding she sees firsthand the difference this involvement can make, such as in the literacy program she runs through the association.
"I see the changes it makes in people's lives. I've also seen the changes that come when people get connected to something when they feel alone, too," she said.
Another means of getting more involved locally is by checking out the recently published Fall Don't Hibernate Guide. These can be picked up at the Mary C. Moore Public Library, Sobeys, the Kinsmen Aquatic Centre, and at the association's office in the Lacombe Centre Mall.
"Really and truly, what it boils down to is happy people," she said. "It's those connections that can really change a person'a life."
For more information about the Active Living Fair, head to www.cllla.com or call 403-782-7955.
Meanwhile, the very next day, on Sept. 12, the Lacombe and District Fall Job Fair will be held at Lacombe Centre Mall from 2 to 6 p.m.
Presented by the Lacombe Employment Centre, the event will feature several local organization and employers looking for prospective employees to join their teams.
Organizers say it's a key way to research and understand employers' needs, present an updated resume and portfolio, and to recognize one's value, too.
For more about the Fall Job Fair, call 403-786-0044, or visit www.lacombeemployement.com.
