Stories and memories from Abbotsford Community Services (ACS) are being gathered for a new book.
ACS celebrates its 50th anniversary next year, and founding member Walter Paetkau is spearheading the book, which will recount how the organization has developed into one of the most diverse service agencies of its kind in Canada.
In two dozen chapters, events from over the years are recalled with personal stories by involved community members; old newspaper articles and ACS annual stories; and Paetkau’s central narrative explaining the incredible journey.
“The story of Abbotsford Community Services is a story of building community. It is a story of people working together to enrich the lives and destiny of citizens of all ages, all abilities, all genders, all income levels, all races, all faiths, and all political persuasions,” Paetkau said.
Stories of success and cautionary tales for future generations, based on the organization’s values and its experiences, speak to: legal services, family support, the food bank, multiculturalism, care and support of young people, intersecting service and social sectors, educational programs, social healing, and community values.
The book will launch early in 2019, with an event to celebrate it. It will soon be available for pre-order on the ACS website, abbotsfordcommunityservices.com.
A larger community event to commemorate the 50th anniversary is being planned for 2019.
Anyone who has a story or memory to share is asked to email bookproject@abbotsfordcommunityservices.com, call 604-859-7681 (ext. 602) or mail: Walter Paetkau, c/o Abbotsford Community Services, 2420 Montrose Ave., Abbotsford, V2S 3S9.