Volunteering Opportunities

Paint a Future with GPRS – Volunteers and Board Members Wanted!

Imagine transforming a home for someone who needs it most—or stepping up to guide a legacy of accessible housing. At the Grande Prairie Residential Society (GPRS), your skills and passion can make that happen. Since 1986, we’ve been building affordable, accessible homes for people with physical disabilities in Grande Prairie, and we need YOU to keep this mission thriving.

One dedicated volunteer recently repainted our duplexes single-handedly, proving a single brushstroke can brighten a resident’s day. Meanwhile, a board director’s tireless efforts turned our community room into a hub of connection, showing how volunteering time can foster real community. These stories highlight what’s possible—and we’re looking for more people to join the effort.

We need volunteers for roles like fundraising, grant writing, and event planning. Do you have experience with finance, construction, experience on a board? No experience? No problem—hands-on experience is provided for many tasks.

We’re also seeking board members to shape our future through committees like strategic planning, budget, policy, marketing, community room, treasury, and maintenance. Got skills in finance, community leadership, or project oversight? Your expertise could help us secure grants, plan our next project, or manage contractors and maintenance. Even if you’re just curious, our all-volunteer board welcomes new faces eager to learn and lead.

Ready to make a difference? Attend an event like our Annual General Meeting on June 17th, 2025, to meet our crew and see what we’re about. Whether you’re strategizing for growth or connecting with the community, your involvement keeps GPRS strong.

Join a community that’s been changing lives for nearly 40 years. Follow us on social media for updates and let’s build something amazing together—starting today!

Building Homes, Changing Lives:
Join GPRS as a Volunteer or Board Member

Imagine a community where every person, regardless of their physical abilities, has a safe and accessible place to call home. That’s the vision that drives the Grande Prairie Residential Society (GPRS), a non-profit organization that has been providing affordable, accessible housing for people with physical disabilities since 1986. Today, we invite you to be part of this transformative journey by volunteering or joining our board.

A Legacy of Impact

GPRS was founded by a group of individuals who saw a need for housing in northern Alberta for people with physical disabilities. This group included people with disabilities, their families, and supporters from the health and business community. Over nearly four decades, we’ve built three major housing projects, each a testament to community collaboration and dedication. From the initial formation in 1986 to the construction of Margaret Edgson Manor in 2005, volunteers have been at the heart of our success, contributing their time, skills, and passion to make accessible housing a reality for many.

Volunteers: The Hands That Build

Our volunteers are the lifeblood of GPRS. Whether it’s painting walls, organizing community events, or providing expert advice, their contributions are invaluable. Take, for example, a lone volunteer who single-handedly painted a row of duplexes, transforming them into vibrant homes for our residents. This act of dedication not only beautified the space but also sparked a sense of pride and belonging among the residents. Another volunteer, a board director, poured countless hours into organizing our community room, turning it into a thriving hub for social interaction and support.

Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, including occupational therapists and nurses who bring their expertise in understanding the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities. Their insights are crucial in ensuring that our housing and support services are tailored to meet the specific needs of our residents.

One of our dedicated volunteers is Thomas Cheesman, who has not only joined several committees but also designed our website. His contributions have been instrumental in increasing our online presence and engaging with the community.

Board Members: The Minds That Lead

Our board is where vision meets action. Comprising community members and tenants, it’s a volunteer crew steering GPRS toward sustainability and growth. We’re seeking individuals with specific skills such as construction knowledge, grant-writing expertise, legal or financial acumen, or community organizing skills. However, we’re also open to anyone eager to learn and contribute. As one key committee member puts it, “Come try it out—see if it fits.” This openness has led to unexpected successes, like the community room project. A strong board starts with people who show up and are willing to make a difference.

Why GPRS? Why Now?

The need for accessible housing in Grande Prairie isn’t diminishing, and neither is our commitment to addressing it. Our organization has deep roots, built on partnerships with health professionals and business leaders who identified and filled a critical gap. Volunteering or joining our board isn’t just about giving time; it’s about joining a network that has been shaping this city for decades. You’ll connect with like-minded individuals, learn from experienced peers, and directly impact the lives of our residents.

GPRS has collaborated with various levels of government, including the City of Grande Prairie, the Province of Alberta, the Government of Canada, and CMHC, to provide affordable and accessible housing. We welcome volunteers who can help bridge these relationships and facilitate communication between different stakeholders.

A Nod to the Past, A Call to the Future

We honor the legacy of those who have come before us—individuals like Margret Edgson, whose name echoes in our history, and the donors who have supported our builds. Their efforts remind us of what’s possible when we work together. Now, it’s your turn to join this legacy. Whether you’re lending a hand in practical tasks, sharing your professional expertise, or leading as a board member, your contribution will help keep GPRS thriving.

So, what will it be? Will you pick up a paintbrush, share your knowledge, take a seat at the table? Join us today and let’s continue building—together. Grande Prairie is waiting for your contribution.

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