Members of the Ponoka Moose Lodge 1633 continue to connect with and support the local community in a range of ways.
Regular events run the gamut from the twice-annual steak fry, to spaghetti suppers (held the last Friday of each month at 6 p.m.), to a variety of markets - such as the upcoming Christmas market slated to run Nov. 23-24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days.
"We are also having a Christmas supper on Nov. 24 with all of the fixings, and it's open to the community," said Rose Nicholson, an association board member, adding the cost is $19 per person, $10 for kids ages five to 10; and youngsters under five get in for free.
"We should be able to have between 200 to 300 people," she said. "The doors will be open for that at 5 p.m. for everyone to come in and be seated."
More than 50 vendors will be featured during the market as well, she said, adding that Santa Claus will also be making an appearance on Nov. 23 from noon to 3 p.m.
"We've got a lot of stuff going on," said Nicholson, adding the organization consistently gives back to the community as well.
At the steak fry earlier this fall for example, donations were made to the Ponoka Elementary School to support their breakfast and snack programs.
That same evening, the Moose also donated $2,000 to the Festival of Trees for the helipad project, plus another $1,000 went to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Ultimately, NIcholson said the organization offers a great opportunity to make new friends and build connections with others.
Another way they connect with folks and keep the local lodge strong is by partnering with other organizations who use their space, like the Ponoka RC Flyers for one.
The Ponoka and Area Archer's Club also meets in the basement to hold their gatherings.
"We also have multiple local clubs that just need the space, too," she said. Beyond these examples, the hall is available for everything from wedding receptions to family reunions, too.
"We have opened up our doors a lot more for availability."
In the meantime, she said that mainly, the Moose focuses on seniors and youth in terms of offering support.
"We've been doing things for the community and with the community," explained Nicholson. "We have events that are family-affordable."
For Nicholson, being a part of the Moose organization is kind of a 'family thing'. She pointed out her grandfather Richard Stebner was instrumental in bringing the Moose Hall from town out to its current location. Her father, plus a number of uncles, have been involved over the years as well.
"I've kind of grown up in this hall - it's in my heart and my soul, and I want to work on keeping it alive," she said.
"I have also joined because I have seen the need for community. I love being able to do projects that put smiles on the faces of kids, adults and of our seniors."
For more about the Ponoka Lodge 1633, call 403-783-4700.
