Volunteers put heart and soul into the rodeo

By Joan Janzen

Volunteers who love rodeo are instrumental in making Kindersley's Rodeo happen each year. Karen Klein is a long-time volunteer and member of the rodeo committee who received recognition at last year's rodeo for her years of dedicated service and commitment.

"I was shocked when I got the award," she said. "I did not expect it, had no idea it was coming, and was very honoured, humbled and grateful."

Her love of rodeo began as a youngster. "I'm from a little town where there was lots of ranching and rodeos. Lots of my family were farmers and ranchers," she explained.

More than thirty years ago, she asked Richard Jones how she could help out, and she's been a dedicated volunteer ever since. "It's something I enjoy very much!" Karen said. "There are eight active committee members, and we have lots of volunteers who step up before and after the rodeo."

When asked what tasks committee members perform, she promptly responded, "Anything that's needed." The committee starts planning in January and keeps at it until after the rodeo is over. "Putting in the dirt, making sure it's level and safe for the workers and contestants is a huge job," Karen said. "While the dirt was delivered, she was kept busy picking rocks and grabbing lunch for everyone. It's a testament to the volunteers' dedication and hard work."

Prior to the actual event, committee members find themselves doing everything from delivering posters to securing sponsors. "It becomes a full-time job once you get closer to the event," she added. The volunteers ensure everyone has everything they need, including feed for the animals. "When the rodeo begins, it's from 8:00 in the morning until 11:30 at night," she said. "There's phone calls and meetings in-between, during and after. And hopefully, you have the opportunity to have a nice cold beer."

Karen knows firsthand how vital volunteers are. "No events would happen without them," she admitted. All the committee members and the extras who join in are proud to put the rodeo on."

Even though it's a lot of work, they all enjoy doing it and appreciate all the support they get from sponsors and fans who come out to the event. "We appreciate it all," she said. "Our sponsors and fans are not just supporters, they are integral to the success of the rodeo. And the fans appreciate all their hard work and dedication."