Group honours volunteers
Festivals and Events P.E.I. present award
Festivals and Events P.E.I. has named Nancy Smith, Scott Stevens and Robert Rafuse as its volunteers of the year.
The award was established in 2014 to recognize the contribution of a volunteer in the success of a festival or event. One volunteer is chosen from each county from nominations put forth by festivals and events members.
“These volunteers are one of the main reason visitors stay the extra day and spend the extra dollar, which at the end of the day makes the difference between an event that is struggling to survive and one that is increasing its revenue share each year,” said said Peter McCrady, president of Festivals and Events P.E.I.
Smith, the Prince County winner, is a native of Cap-Egmont and won for her work at the Sunday night variety concerts and Grand Ruisseau Song Festival.
“Every night she was there to lend a helping hand, either at selling 50/50 tickets, working at the door or helping at the canteen” said Edmond Gallant of the Co-opérative de développement culturel et patrimonial de Mont-Carmel. “She loves to serve her community; she also
“These volunteers are one of the main reason visitors stay the extra day...” Peter McCrady
loves to visit and help seniors in need.”
Stevens, the Queens County winner is part of the transportation committee for the P.E.I. International Shellfish Festival.
“He is a great ambassador, not only for our event, but also for Prince Edward Island,” said festival representative Kelly Murphy. “He drives our international chefs who compete at our Garland International Chef Challenge competition. He is pleasant and shows what Island hospitality is all about.”
Rafuse, the Kings County winner, works with the Town of Souris events department. He’s involved as a soundman and helps run the Sea Glass Festival.
“Bob will set up chairs, set up tents, run for toilet paper, whatever the task is, nothing is too big or small,” said Joeanne Roche of the Town of Souris. “Jokingly, I say Bob can’t retire until I do. Bob gives freely of his time and works hard at making everyone feel comfortable.”