Last week, board members and volunteers of The Community Exchange (TCE) gathered to reflect on another successful year of service in Altona.
Situated on Main St., TCE has become a vital resource that helps people live, thrive, and, most importantly, connect. Their mission is simple yet profound: to act as a hub that links individuals to community events, programs, and services.
“We’re right here at the heart of Altona and we’re helping people connect,” said executive director Paul Peters. “The success of TCE is not just in the programs it offers, but in the collective effort of those who bring these initiatives to life.”
Peters began the year-end meeting by expressing deep gratitude to those who keep the organization functioning.
“A lot of what makes TCE possible is the community that supports us,” he said, highlighting the ongoing contributions of donors, volunteers, community members, and staff. “Each one of you plays a significant role in making what happens here possible. We want to say a heartfelt thank you to each of you for the role you play.”
One of TCE’s cornerstones is the support of its 53 active volunteers.
“Thanks to you, TCE has been able to offer nearly 2,500 hours of service annually, ensuring that everything from food programs to community events run smoothly,” Peters said.
Financial support has also been appreciated.
“Last year alone, donations amounted to $205,842, thanks to the generosity of 28 local businesses that supported the initiative. This is double the number of businesses that contributed the year before, a testament to the growing impact of TCE in the community,” Peters noted.
TCE’s dedicated staff includes Kayla Giesbrecht, Sheila Klassen, Daphne Cole, Lisa Peters, Diana Wiebe, Marina Ermosa, and Peters himself. Together, they bring TCE’s vision to life. The organization’s three main pillars are fundamental to everything TCE does: gathering around food, learning from and with each other, and providing a community hub.
“Food is imperative to life,” Peters emphasized. “Regardless of one’s background or economic status, food has the unique power to bring people together. TCE’s food rescue program stands as one of the most impactful components of this mission. By collecting surplus food from local grocers and food distributors – food that would otherwise go to waste—TCE redistributes it to those in need.”
In the past year, TCE rescued over $190,000 worth of food, with fresh produce, dairy, meat, and fish making up 75 per cent of what was distributed.
“These healthier options ensure that those facing food insecurity have access to nutritious meals,” Peters said. “TCE’s food rescue program, in partnership with local businesses and farms, is a crucial lifeline for many.”
Peters also highlighted TCE’s community market, which serves as a space for people to access fresh food throughout the week. The market serves around 40 families or individuals each week. This year, traffic through the building increased by 33 per cent, showing the growing demand for the services provided.
Additionally, TCE partners with other organizations, such as the Gretna Community Market, to extend its reach and meet local needs.
TCE also emphasizes the importance of learning from and with one another.
“Every one of us has something to offer, something to learn, and something to bring to the table,” Peters said.
This philosophy is reflected in the many educational programs the agency hosts. Last year, TCE organized documentary screenings that sparked important conversations, such as Unbankable, which examined alternative financial practices, and Wilfred Buck, a documentary that explored Indigenous storytelling and reconciliation.
“These events offer valuable opportunities for community members to engage with one another and learn from diverse perspectives,” Peters said.
The language cafés—English, French, and Spanish—are another example of how TCE provides a space for learning and cultural exchange.
“These cafes, which attract a variety of participants, help bridge language gaps, encouraging understanding and connection across different backgrounds.”
The final pillar of TCE’s mission is its role as a community hub.
“It’s not just about providing food or educational program,” stressed Peters. “TCE also serves as a place where individuals can access the resources they need, whether it’s warm clothing, a hot meal, healthcare, housing support, or a simple conversation.
“We want to be a place where people can find connections to the services they need.”
TCE acts as a conduit, guiding people to the right resources, even if it doesn’t directly provide them. Its partnership with local organizations further strengthens its role as a community hub.
In addition to the regular community meals, such as the monthly community lunch and breakfast programs, TCE also hosts unique events like concerts, cooking groups, and financial literacy workshops in collaboration with Access Credit Union. These initiatives encourage people to engage with their community, learn new skills, and feel supported.
As TCE reflects on another year of growth and connection, Peters said its future looks brighter than ever.
“Planning for the new year, we are looking forward to developing a new two to three-year strategic plan, developing a pilot transportation project in partnership with the town, and continuing to break down barriers of entry for folks in the region. Our doors remain open for each one of you to come join us for a meal or a simple conversation about your dreams for Altona.”
