April 2002

Western Region: Alberta South

Feed the Hungry

On Sunday, March 3rd, 2002, members from Progress clubs across Calgary rolled up their sleeves and pitched in to help serve hot meals to some of the city's less fortunate residents.

Participating in St. Mary's Parish "Feed the Hungry" campaign, Calgary Progressians gathered at St. Mary's hall between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. to volunteer their time as food and table servers, greeters and kitchen helpers.  By the end of the day, 553 people had been served-and not only served-but served in grand style, thanks to the generosity and musical talents of RazzamaJazz.  The 25-piece jazz band donated its time to entertain diners throughout the three-hour dinner service.

Organizer of the annual interclub charity event, Calgary Bow River's Ed Cooke, extended a warm thank you to everyone who volunteered. "There were more children here to receive meals than in past years," he noted. With youth being a prime focus of many Calgary clubs, this year's event struck a particularly resonant chord with Progress volunteers. "I'm glad to be a part of this," was the recurring sentiment.

A wrap-up party at Desperados was held later that evening and was attended by about 40 volunteers.