Who are your Welcome Wagon ambassadors?
By Joan Janzen
It may be chilly outdoors, but there’s always a warm welcome waiting for newcomers to our community. This fall, Welcome Wagon was introduced into Kindersley and area with the help of Better Together and the Town of Kindersley.
Because fewer people tend to relocate during the winter months, the Welcome Wagon team thought the winter season would be a good time to introduce our Welcome Wagon ambassadors. There are currently seven individuals on the team, but more are always welcome.
Deb TeBokkel is one of seven Welcome Wagon ambassadors in Kindersley. SUBMITTED
This month, we’ll introduce Deb TeBokkel, who moved to Kindersley in 2009, at which time Welcome Wagon was in operation. “All I did was work and go home, so I didn’t know much about the town,” she said. That all changed when a Welcome Wagon representative knocked on her door.
She was given information about the town, coupons, and gifts. “I was given a pocket knife; I still have it,” she said. The visit made her feel welcome and gave her a sense of community.
When Welcome Wagon reappeared in Kindersley, Deb quickly joined the team. “As a property manager, I meet a lot of new people, and I felt there was a need in our community,” she explained. She also works part-time at a restaurant, which gives her the opportunity to meet many newcomers.
When she met a new teacher at the restaurant, she told him about Welcome Wagon, and on his next visit, she presented him with a packet of information and gifts, including a mug. “I remember him smiling and saying, ‘That’s a pretty nice mug!’” Deb recalled.
Even though information is readily available to newcomers online and via social media, there’s nothing quite like a smile, a friendly greeting, and receiving tangible gifts to make a person feel like they belong in their community.
Welcome Wagon in Kindersley is operating thanks to volunteers giving of their time and talents, and because of the generosity extended from local businesses, for which we’re truly thankful. If anyone meets a new resident in Kindersley who would like to receive a Welcome Wagon packet, please call 306-500-1173.
During this festive season, the Welcome Wagon team would like to wish everyone a blessed and joyful Christmas holiday. We hope your new year sees you enjoying good health and happiness.