Preserving Culture in the Nicola Valley through Volunteerism

Volunteers: The Backbone of NVCAC

The Nicola Valley Community Arts Council (NVCAC) relies heavily on the dedication and hard work of its volunteers. These individuals are the driving force behind the council’s success, ensuring that the community arts scene remains vibrant and alive.

• They provide essential support for various events and activities, including painting walls, fixing shelving, and setting up for receptions.
• They help create engaging activities and opportunities for kids during the summer months.
• They ensure that there is always food and drinks available for events.
• They support fellow volunteers who may be struggling with physical demands.

The volunteers’ contributions are invaluable, and their dedication is what truly keeps the space alive.

Meet the Volunteers

NVCAC currently has dozens of volunteers who are passionate about preserving culture in the town. Many of them are creatives who share a common goal of keeping the arts scene alive in a small town like Merritt.

• Sarah Molnar, volunteer coordinator, emphasizes the importance of community engagement and says, “The board is all creative people … I think we all find inspiration in being with like-minded creative folk, and so that’s fun to spread that.”
• Astralis Snee, volunteer curator, notes, “Their dedication is what truly keeps this space alive.”

The Role of NVCAC in Preserving Culture

NVCAC believes that centres like the art gallery are essential in fostering culture, especially in small towns.

1. They provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work and gain visibility.
2. They host arts classes and programs for adults and youth, promoting cultural enrichment and community engagement.
3. They support artists in building their personal platforms and networks.

According to Sarah Molnar, the president of the board, Mischelle Pierce, is a key figure in the council’s success.

“We see different aspects of our culture through art, and because it can be so subjective and individual, it really means something different for everyone.”

— Sarah Molnar

Molnar also highlights the importance of community engagement and building relationships with local artists. “Even if you’re not an artist and you’re not interested, maybe your kids or your grandkids are. The more members we have, the more we can show the support we have when we apply for grants.”

Molnar emphasizes the significance of NVCAC’s role in preserving culture in the Nicola Valley.

1. 250 members (membership goal set in 2020)
2. 20 members short of the goal (as of 2023)

NVCAC is on the cusp of reaching their membership goal of 250 members, a goal that was initially considered unattainable.

The board believes that the more members NVCAC has, the more they can support local artists and demonstrate their commitment to the community. “Their dedication is what truly keeps this space alive,” said Astralis Snee, volunteer curator. “We see different aspects of our culture through art, and because it can be so subjective and individual, it really means something different for everyone,” said Sarah Molnar, volunteer coordinator. “The board is all creative people … I think we all find inspiration in being with like-minded creative folk, and so that’s fun to spread that,” said Sarah Molnar.