From its earliest days as an agricultural fair, the Calgary Stampede has been a volunteer organization. Our deep volunteer roots have played an integral role in forming the cooperative community spirit and pride of place that have come to define Calgary and Southern Alberta. Throughout our history, the people who have volunteered for the Calgary Stampede have helped shape not only our organization, but also our city and province.

The Calgary Stampede's volunteers are committed ambassadors: 58 per cent have volunteered for 10 years or more and 30 per cent have over 20 years of service. With a reputation as a "great place to volunteer" and as one of the most respected volunteer organizations in the world, we are fortunate to have a wait list of people interested in joining our organization.

Currently, we have over 2,000 year-round volunteers, an additional 500 Stampede-time volunteers and 580 alumni who are from every walk of life and form the backbone of our organization. All of our volunteers, from the front-line, event volunteer to our board of directors, have contributed to making our organization what it is today.

Stampede volunteers can be found organizing competitions, educating the public, developing our youth, entertaining, fund raising and providing exemplary customer service as they help us host the world. The events and activities our volunteers help organize not only help the Stampede achieve its mission but ultimately help build community.

Our volunteers give one of modern life's rarest commodities: time. Every year, countless numbers of them take their "holidays" during our annual 10-day July event and often put in as many hours volunteering as others do at their paying job. Many of our volunteers and employees also volunteer with other organizations in the community to further improve the quality of life for Calgarians.

Recognizing the considerable talent, experience and expertise of our volunteers, the responsibility for coordinating their activities rests with them...the Volunteer Services team simply provides any additional resources or support needed to ensure success in their role.

In celebration of National Volunteer Week, we'd like to take this opportunity to thank our volunteers for their passion and commitment to the Calgary Stampede. The importance of our volunteers can never be overstated and we are so proud of the contributions they make not only to our organization, but to the community at large.