October 30, 2024
Serving up some fun at Edson’s new community volleyball net earlier this year are, from left: Krysta Hawboldt, a health promotion facilitator with Healthy Schools for AHS; Audrey St-Francois, a health promotion facilitator with Healthier Together Edson for AHS; and Diana Inscho, a community development coordinator for the Town of Edson. Supplied.
Story by Lisa Laferriere
EDSON — While the newly installed volleyball court in Edson has officially closed for the season, town residents came together for lots of healthy fun, connection and exercise this past summer.
Installed on Aug. 21, across from Griffiths Park Centre, the court was made possible through the AHS Healthier Together initiative in collaboration with local partners, including the Community Engagement Action Team (CEAT), Town of Edson, Yellowhead County and others. It proved a busy and active space for community engagement and social interaction in Edson.
Throughout the month of September, various groups of local residents enjoyed the court, which provided a new, active gathering place for friends and families.
“Bringing the volleyball court to Edson was about more than just sport — it was about creating a space for youth to connect, break isolation, and enjoy the outdoors,” says Audrey St-Francois, the AHS Healthier Together health promotion facilitator in Edson who helped bring the project to fruition.
“The feedback we’ve received from the community so far has been really positive and confirms the need for this recreational opportunity.”
The installation of an outdoor community volleyball court is the result of community input gathered through local surveys and meetings. Feedback identified the need to enhance social connections and recreational opportunities for youth.
“The volleyball court has been extremely well received in our community,” says Lexi Abbott, community development coordinator with the Town of Edson. “It was exciting to see youth make use of the space within 24 hours of the net being installed, even before we had a chance to advertise it.
“This area has become a fantastic place for youth, adults, and families to come together, stay active and enjoy quality time outside. We’re very pleased with the outcome of this project.”
A Sept. 24 community youth event also raised awareness of the new court and attracted about 25 residents. The get-together featured volleyball, spike ball, soccer, disc golf, music and snacks — and fostered a healthy atmosphere of fun and connection.
The court is expected to reopen in the spring. St-Francois adds: “We’re looking forward to more events and gatherings, ensuring that the volleyball court continues to serve as a hub for connection and recreation in Edson.”
For more information about the AHS Healthier Together initiative in Edson, visit Community Engagement Action Team | Town of Edson.