The Rotary Club spotlights over half-a-century of community volunteerism in Nick Sereda.

    The recipient of this prestigious award has never expected any public recognition. In fact, if he had advance knowledge of this presentation he probably would have graciously declined an invitation to attend Monday’s meeting.
    The family knows of his volunteerism in helping make ours a more enjoyable community in which to live in – that’s been his total purpose in life – spending countless hours, year after year, whether it be enhancing the lives of our youth to doing his part for those in need.
    At the young age of 85, Nick continues to be active:
    His volunteer work in the community includes:
- 31 years dedicated to volunteering to look after the Midland Community Outdoor Rink – every night he locks up between 10 and 11 – each morning he opens the facility between 9:30 and 10.
    In the 1960’s he embarked on his journey to help youth by providing activities for them. In 1967 he took over as coach and manager of the Little League Midland Braves.         
    A highlight of this era was in 1970 when he played a key role in bringing to the Valley its first and only Little League (Sandlot) Alberta championship. He coached and played slow pitch from 1980 – 89….hosted the annual Midland Boomers Slow pitch tournament for 7 years and spent countless hours maintaining ball diamonds, organizing events and even did some umpiring.  Through all of this he found time to help with coaching duties for baseball and hockey with his grandchildren. He then went on to assist his son in coaching hardball – becoming involved in the Fun League, the East-Central Games and coaching men’s slow pitch.
    In the 1990’s Nick helped his son coach the Midland Braves Little League team for competitions in Shelby, Montana and they came home with a couple of championships.
    At present he still helps on the players bench at the annual Drumheller Fun Team Alumni Centrium hockey game in Red Deer,
    Just ask, he’s known to jump in and volunteer to assist where he can. For year’s one can see Nick canvassing for Heart & Stroke - Diabetes  and other needy organizations. Every year he can be seen helping with the Salvation Army kettles. He assists at Calgary casinos for organizations raising money for our community.
Nick’s volunteer contributions over the many years have been so important, so impactful. That’s why we say because of his dedication the real winner is our community.
    With that in mind Rotary is pleased to have this occasion to honour and say thank you to a fine citizen who steps up to the plate to volunteer.