Parkland Valley District Spotlight

Celebrating Community Successes

Date: October, 2025

Issue: 4

Stronger Together: Spotlight on Community Volunteers

At the heart of every thriving community are people who quietly give their time, energy, and heart to make things better for everyone. Their efforts whether through sport, culture, or recreation, build connection, create opportunity, and inspire others to get involved. Each fall, Parkland Valley District recognizes these remarkable individuals through the Recognizing Volunteers Together initiative, celebrating the outstanding contributions of volunteers across the district.

Now in its second year, the initiative continues to grow, reflecting the passion and dedication found in communities throughout the district. This year’s three recipients, Chris Sander of Yorkton, Jackie Rathgeber of Melville, and Megan Bjarnason of Churchbridge, each represent the very best of volunteerism in their own unique way.

Few people embody dedication to community sport like Chris Sander. From coaching at multiple levels to refereeing, coordinating game days, and maintaining the football field, Chris’s fingerprints are on every corner of Yorkton’s football programs. He even implemented an equipment inventory system and manages the organization’s website, small but vital pieces that keep the whole operation running smoothly.

Chris’s commitment doesn’t stop there. This year, he played a key role in launching the new Touch Football League, expanding opportunities for players of all ages to participate. He also led efforts to add a new storage sea can to the football clubhouse, organizing volunteers, prepping the site, and handling every detail from roll-up doors to concrete prep.

When asked what motivates him, Chris said, “Being part of such an amazing organization and such a great sport makes it an easy decision to volunteer.” His proudest moments are seeing young athletes grow, succeed, and move on to play at higher levels. His advice for future volunteers? “It’s very rewarding to be part of these kids’ success. Watching them grow into young adults is the most amazing thing.”

Through the Recognizing Volunteers Together initiative, $300 was awarded to Yorkton Minor Football to support its ongoing programs, an investment in both the sport and the spirit of teamwork Chris exemplifies.

At the Melville Heritage Museum, enthusiasm has a name and it’s Jackie Rathgeber. Known for her hands-on approach, Jackie is always at the museum lending a hand, leading projects, and sharing her passion for local history with visitors. While many board members work to keep things running, Jackie works to make the museum better.

From finding grants and creating programs to giving engaging tours, Jackie’s energy and warmth bring history to life. Her favorite moments often happen during those tours, especially when she’s connecting with newcomers or school groups. One highlight she shared was giving a tour to newcomers to Canada, where her words were translated into four different languages on visitors’ phones. “It was amazing,” she said, “to see our local stories reach people in such a unique way.”

Jackie’s advice for anyone thinking about volunteering: “Pick something that you love or that you feel is important. Everything you do to volunteer is valuable to the cause and to yourself.”

Her $300 award was directed to the Melville Heritage Museum, helping to sustain the programs and experiences she so passionately brings to life.

When it comes to seeing a need and finding a solution, few do it quite like Megan Bjarnason. A full-time professional, community leader, and volunteer, Megan has been instrumental in developing programs and improving facilities in Churchbridge.

She’s the driving force behind the Summer Days program, a fun, engaging initiative that keeps school-aged children active and involved in their community during the summer months. When the sport court needed maintenance, Megan organized a crew of volunteers to reseal it. And when the community needed help fundraising, she was among the first to lend a hand.

Her motivation comes from a deep pride in helping her community thrive. “I’m deeply committed to seeing it succeed,” Megan said. “I take pride in making a positive impact, particularly in initiatives that support and inspire our young people.”

Megan’s leadership and initiative are matched only by her ability to bring people together. As one of her nominators said, “Without people like Megan, programs just wouldn’t exist.” Her $300 award was directed to the Churchbridge Sport Court under the Town of Churchbridge, helping purchase new equipment for the facility she helped maintain.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Chris, Jackie, and Megan for their outstanding contributions. We also want to recognize all of the incredible volunteers who were nominated this year, each one truly deserving of celebration. Through the Recognizing Volunteers Together initiative, we are proud to celebrate the people who make our communities stronger, more vibrant, and more connected.

Parkland Valley Spotlight highlights success stories in sport, culture, and recreation from across our region. Have a story to share? Let us know!

Parkland Valley Sport Culture and Recreation District is a non profit voluntary organization working with communities building capacity and creating a strong network of support through sport, culture, and recreation.

Recipients are encouraged to forward the Parkland Valley Insider! to other members of their organizations.

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