Organizers gearing up for this year's Central Alberta Fanfest in Ponoka are putting out the call for more volunteer support.
Described as a high-quality anime, comic book, sci-fi, and fantasy expo, the free event is set to run July 26 at the Ponoka Jubilee Library from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Central Alberta Fanfest’s objective is to provide a high-quality (and safe) expo with a small-town vibe, explained Cynthia Bottomley, event coordinator.
"What I'm looking for right now are people who would be interested in helping me organize the event," she said, adding she moved it a month earlier this year so as to not conflict with a similar event being held in Lacombe - the Lacombe Game Convention - on what would have been the same weekend.
"We would instead like to work together to provide more activities like these for Central Albertans, rather than less," she said.
As to the seeking of volunteer support, there are many ways that folks can help out.
"We would plan out what would be occurring at the event, as well as who could help run things in person at it, too. They could also help with recruiting other volunteers for set-up and take-down at the festival - things like that," she said.
Bottomley said cosplay (the dressing up and performance of characters from books, movies, and other media) can be described as an art form. It’s more than just dressing up - those taking part can really have fun getting into ‘character’ as well.
Meanwhile, there was a deadline of April 25 for folks to reach out to Bottomley to sign up for the volunteer committee, but she said anyone who would like to volunteer after the deadline has passed is still encouraged to contact her.
"They can reach out to me to join, or to even see what it's like at our first meeting," she said.
"If I can get some helpers onboard, I would sure appreciate it. We will get them involved somehow."
Central Alberta Fanfest strives to provide an engaging and accessible fandom convention experience for residents of Ponoka, and the surrounding communities who may not be able to attend the bigger cons in Calgary or Edmonton. The first Fanfest was held in the summer of 2019, and it continues to attract fans from across the region, she said.
Initially, it all started from the anime/manga club at the Library in 2018. They have since re-named that group the Fandomedia Club.
For Bottomley, seeing the event take shape each summer is a joy.
"It's going to be a great day with a vendors' market, cosplay, and games - it will be a lot of fun for everyone involved. I'm really excited!"
To contact Cynthia Bottomley, email fanfestponoka@gmail.com.
In the meantime, Bottomley also noted that library staff are working to generate community interest for a Friends of the Library group.
"This non-profit organization consists of volunteers who are passionate about libraries," she said.
"The organization is a separate entity, and would serve as an important source of support for our library through advocacy, fundraising, and volunteering in library related activities."
An information session will be held at the library on May 7, from 6-6:30 p.m. which is open for anyone who might be interested.
