Volunteers with the Town of Okotoks have been honoured for their work with the Okotoks Memory Café.
They received an Alberta Northern Lights award to recognize their contribution to their community through the program.
It was originally launched in 2018 and reintroduced in 2022 after a hiatus during the COVID-019 pandemic.
The Memory Café is held once a month at the Okotoks & District Seniors' Club and offers support and resources to people living with dementia, as well as their caregivers.
That includes support resources, coffee and snacks, activity tables, and emotional support.
"While the challenges are daunting, help and heartfelt harmony are always on the menu at the Okotoks Memory Cafe. For their passionate and compassionate service, the Cafe’s volunteers are truly worthy of Northern Lights Volunteer Recognition," reads a release from the Government of Alberta.
Volunteers attend quarterly training sessions to help them understand the struggles of those with dementia and help them better connect with caregivers.
According to the Town of Okotoks, 13 volunteers contributed 200 hours to the program in 2024.