“I would describe it as a place where organizations can come together to promote their events that are for children in the area. We just wanted to really [shine] a spotlight on these organizations in the community and have a one-stop place for families to come and see what organizations have available for activities for their children.”
This is what Danselle Neufeld, the organizer of the upcoming Pembina Valley Expo, said about the event that takes place on September 4th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at St. Paul’s United Church in Morden.
Neufeld said that the Expo, which is open to the entire community, is a good way for everyone to stay informed about the Pembina Valley’s offerings — whether one is a new or established community member.
“We really just want to bring all [the activities] together under one roof,” she said.
Who will be there?
One of the community organizations in attendance will be the local 4-H program, which strives to create “self-confidence, communication, and leadership skills while learning about a topic,” according to its Manitoba website.
Neufeld said that there will also be representation from Small Wonders Nursery School, Regional Connections, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, among others.
Neufeld said her business, Valleyfield Music Studio, will also have a booth at the event.
“So many times we have children come into the studio just wanting to connect with a mentor of sorts, and music really connects them,” she said. “It doesn't matter if you're from here or from somewhere else, music is a universal language.”
Volunteer opportunities
In addition to the chance to sign children up for the activities and programs the region offers, Neufeld said the Expo is also a beneficial environment for those interested in volunteering.
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“Without volunteers, we can't have these programs, and without these programs, our children have nothing to do,” she said.
The motivation behind an inaugural event
This is the first year of the Pembina Valley Expo.
Neufeld said that she is organizing the event to unite the community.
“We wanted to connect to our families,” she said. “Last year, we were at a similar event in Morden, and they decided not to go ahead with that event this year, so we just wanted to make sure that families could get as connected as possible.”
Neufeld said there is still an opportunity for organizations to sign up for the Expo.
“We don't have any sports organizations on our list yet,” she added. “We'd love to see them as well.”
For more information about signing up, Neufeld invites emails to danselleneufeld@gmail.com.
Click here to learn more about the Pembina Valley Expo.
With files from Ty Hildebrand