Once upon a chilly November morning in 2023, the Tri-Cities service center of S.U.C.C.E.S.S. embarked on a heartwarming mission to contribute to the festive spectacle known as "Lights at Lafarge" in Town Centre Park, Coquitlam.
On November 16, more than 20 enthusiastic clients gathered to help transform the park into a wonderland, supporting Metro Vancouver's largest free outdoor lights display. Nestled at the corner of Guildford Way and Pinetree Way, Town Centre Park became a canvas for creativity as volunteers worked tirelessly to enhance the lights, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Mostly residents of Tri-Cities, the participants expressed pride in making Coquitlam a fantastic place to live. With family and friends often visiting Town Centre Park, the volunteers took joy in their festive contribution.
Newcomers engaged in various activities, fostering connections and community spirit by volunteering with Coquitlam's Park Spark Light Brigade. This experience allowed them to give back and connect with both their community and fellow volunteers.
Memorable interactions and moments illuminated the park as brightly as the festive displays. Volunteers, many of whom had participated in the previous year's event, reunited, strengthening their connections, and creating a sense of belonging.
Despite potential challenges, the volunteers pressed on, driven by their passion for contributing to the local community. Positive feedback from clients in a post-event survey highlighted the impact, with one respondent noting, "This is a great activity for contributing to the local community and meeting friends."
Looking ahead, the Tri-Cities service center plans to continue supporting the City of Coquitlam for the Lafarge Lights decoration volunteer opportunity every year. Additionally, the community can anticipate the continuation of gardening activities every spring, building on the success of the previous Spring Gardening initiative held in early June 2023. With hearts full of warmth and a community spirit shining as brightly as the lights they helped install, the volunteers of S.U.C.C.E.S.S. left a lasting imprint on the holiday season in Coquitlam.
