ASSINIBOIA — Rita Walters has spent decades quietly shaping community life in Assiniboia, earning recognition as one of the town’s most dedicated and long-serving volunteers.
Walters has been noted by a number of residents as someone who is considered one of Assiniboia’s longest-serving volunteers, as well as someone who volunteers in multiple roles.
Walters told the Assiniboia Times she has been part of the Royal Canadian Legion in town since 1975. Because of her past involvement with Air Cadets as an officer, she was able to join the local Legion. Her volunteer roles have included both executive positions and helping with tasks the legion looks after, such as the annual Remembrance Day services.
The Assiniboia woman also served as a Brownie and Girl Guide leader for 27 years before the organization folded in the community.
“I joined the Girl Guide organization with my daughter and soon learned their need for leaders, so I stepped in. I worked my way up in the ranks to area commissioner. I attended camps with our girls for 21 years, with two of those being international camps, volunteering with food services.”
Her volunteer roles also involve work with the CWL.
“I guess wherever I can help, I do it. I am the secretary for Parish Council through church, and in charge of bookings for the hall as well as catering, sacristan, do up the ministry lists and whatever else has to be done. I have also organized our Church’s fowl supper for the 30th year.”
Those around Walters said she doesn’t serve in any of these roles for the thanks or acknowledgement; she simply does it because she wants to, not because she has to. Regardless of her reasons, Assiniboia residents pass on appreciation for the benefits of having her in the community and are grateful for all the shoes she fills.
Walters said that many people help in these areas, so she feels she is part of a team, which is beneficial because she still fulfills all of these roles, balanced with working full time.
Walters is also one of Saskatchewan recipients of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal which were presented in 2022-23 to honour outstanding contributions to community and province.
