Between 100 and 200 people came out Monday morning in support of Abe Crawford being named Alberta's small town hero.
The occasion was in support of judges who visited the community to find out what a difference Crawford has made.
As one of 10 finalists for the contest, Crawford was given $2,500, which he chose to split between Olds Special Olympics and the Boys and Girls Club of Olds. If he is among the top two, he would win $10,000 for the community, plus a Paul Brandt concert, proceeds of which would also go back to the community.
Several speakers gave tributes to Crawford for his volunteerism, including Coun. Murray Ball, Rick Astle, a fellow coach with Special Olympics and Milaney Anhorn, one of the children who attends the boys and girls club. Anhorn said Crawford is an exceptional leader.
“Abe's not your average 17-year-old. He's our Super Abe. Being a hero doesn't require a heroic effort, just a good effort at the right time,” she said.
Raelynn Notley, coordinator of the Youth Empowerment Support program, who nominated Crawford and organized the event on Monday, said not only did Crawford benefit from the program himself, he later volunteered for it. He became such an integral volunteer that once, when his assistance was greatly needed he was unable to attend a function due to a time conflict with volunteering as a Special Olympics coach.
“He is the true form of what of what a volunteer looks like. If we could have more of Abe, every community in Alberta would be much better,” she said.
Crawford thanked everyone in the community for their support.
“It just shows the community we have. I'm truly humbled by this experience,” he told the audience.
Crawford said he's enjoyed all the programs he has volunteered for over the years.
“I'm just glad I could help them in some small way. I will truly miss everyone,” he said, noting that Notley did an excellent job of spearheading recognition for the community.
“Without her, none of this would be possible. Olds is an amazing community with amazing people,” he said.
Crawford, who estimates he has volunteered hundreds of hours for community organizations over the years, will begin studies at the University of Calgary in geology beginning this week.
Amanda Bates, director of communications with UFA, which is sponsoring the Small Town Heroes contest, said by touring each of the top 10 nominees' communities, the judges get a good sense of the nominees and the communities that are supporting them. The judges will be making their decision on Sept. 7. Brandt's concerts will be happening at the end of October.
Votes, which make up 30 per cent of the final evaluation, will close on Friday. People can vote for Crawford at www.ufa.com.
