The Strathmore community gathered together for a barbecue fundraiser.
Western Financial Group held its second annual barbecue lunch at Ranch Market on Friday (July 11) from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
The event was pay-by-donation, with the proceeds going to support the Kakato'si Kristian Ayoungman Foundation's Lead by Example Powwow.
The powwow honours the legacy of Kristian Ayoungman, a local hockey player and champion dancer from Siksika Nation who is remembered for his leadership and his work to bring communities together.
"They're so humble and kind people," said Melissa Buckley, branch manager of Western Financial Group, speaking about the Ayoungman family. "They're very happy we're doing this for them—both to raise money, awareness, and what they're trying to do with reconciliation."
Alongside the hot dog lunch, the event featured vintage cars from the Strathmore Fun Runners, Tonka the mini horse, cornhole, cotton candy, and a human slot machine booth.
Also featured were traditional dance performances and a presentation by members of the Ayoungman family.
Buckley said it's important to showcase cultural traditions and to raise awareness.
"The movement that Melodie Ayoungman and her family are doing is a big part of that," Buckley said. "Folks that I spoke to about the Lead by Example Powwow said they had never been exposed to the culture before going."
"Reconciliation is growing with education of the culture and by coming together."
The event was open to all and aimed to raise awareness for the annual powwow while celebrating reconciliation and cultural traditions between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Western Financial Group plans to support different charities as the annual event continues.
Photos from the event are included below.