MOUNTAIN VIEW COUNTY – Almost a quarter of a million dollars have been contributed back to community service groups and the local economy over the past decade courtesy of the Westward Ho Campers Association.
Since first getting started in April 2012, the Westward Ho Campers Association has donated more than $225,000 to charities, according to a statement recently issued by the association that was written by its president Pat Stray.
“This year alone, the association donated $18,000 to the Mountain View County Food Bank, $2,800 to the Sundre Hospital Futures Committee, $2,000 to STARS Ambulance and $2,000 to the Sundre AquaPlex,” reads a portion of Stray’s report.
These efforts, he wrote, are a part of the non-profit organization’s decision to embrace “its social responsibility within the community by consistently contributing to local charities.”
To that end, the association also strives to set an example to its members by “encouraging a culture of giving back to the community that welcomes us as temporary residents. Every year, the association fosters new events that support local groups and organizations.”
In the fallout of COVID and inflation driving up the cost of living, the association recognized the need to increase its support for the food bank, he said.
“The association has also stepped up and supported other local groups dedicated to helping Mountain View County residents,” he added.
While a majority of the association’s members are not county residents, the organization’s mandate nevertheless remains to always support local charities and businesses, he said.
Additionally, the campground’s north ball diamond is also registered as a designated landing site for STARS, which if needed allows for speedy access for emergency services responding in the area, he said.
Visit www.westwardhocampground.ca for more information or even to offer suggestions on other groups and initiatives that would benefit from the the association’s support.
Groups and organizations that require assistance are also encouraged to reach out to the association by contacting the campground’s office at 403-556-2568.
