What does it mean to do right by your community?

It’s a question that we ask ourselves every day at Rocky Mountain Equipment (RME) – and a question that we posed to agricultural societies in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba with the renewal of the RME Right by You Ag Society Grant this spring.

Earlier this year, RME announced the continuation of this community investment initiative that supports local projects benefitting the lives of rural residents across Western Canada. The overwhelming response we received from across the Prairies speaks to how vital volunteer-driven, not-for-profit organizations are to rural community members.

RME is pleased to recognize four of these agriculture societies that champion how we can work together to unify and strengthen the communities we live and operate in. We are excited to support each association’s growth with a $10,000 grant toward an approved community initiative.

In Alberta, the DeBolt & District Agricultural Society has worked diligently for the past three years to develop an outdoor skating rink facility to expand recreational opportunities for everyone in the area. Laura Gerwatoski, Director of the DeBolt & District Agricultural Society, shares how the grant will further this vision: “The funds will go towards building a Zamboni storage shed to maintain the ice easier while reducing the volunteer hours needed and increasing use of the facility. This program helps us to organize events that will encourage activity and participation for residents of all ages.”

The Trochu & District Agricultural Society has rolled up its sleeves to uphold the deeply rooted western heritage of its community. Funding will freshly outfit the rodeo facilities, furthering the agricultural society’s ability to host events. “We are working to bring in rodeos, cowboy challenges, clinics and bull riding for the entertainment and participation of people in our area as well as to welcome new people to our town,” says Nicooly Bignold, director of the Trochu & District Agricultural Society.

Manitoba can also expect to see more cowboys and cowgirls with the expansion of the Valley Agricultural Society’s rodeo stock pens and chutes. “Our agricultural society is always looking to enhance the experiences we offer to surrounding residents and visitors alike, and RME’s support came at a welcome time as we recently added breakaway roping to our rodeo,” rodeo director Tim Lewis shares. “We are all very appreciative of this award and are excited to continue bettering our show.”

Biggar Rec Valley has been a longtime hub for recreation in Saskatchewan. From abundant green spaces to various sports complexes, there is no shortage of fulfilling activities for individuals and families to experience. Now, Biggar Rec Valley will offer a place to kick back and further grounds for its community to connect with RME’s support in constructing a picnic pavilion.  Ashley Heather, president of the Biggar Rec Valley, shares “We are run by a small board with huge goals. This grant program gives us the opportunity to continue building and accommodating our community so even more people can enjoy it. Thank you RME!”

Congratulations to our four grant recipients. Rocky Mountain Equipment thanks all the agricultural societies for their submissions in 2023. Check back for 2024 RME Right by You Ag Society Grant applications in the spring or follow us on Twitter @RMEHQ for more updates.

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Valley Agricultural Society

 

DeBolt & District Agricultural Society

Biggar Rec Valley

Trochu & District Agricultural Society