A dedicated volunteer in the local arts scene is receiving the Citizen of Distinction Award from the Morden Area Foundation this spring.
Margie Hildebrand is being recognized for her service not only with the Pembina Hills Arts Council but with other initiatives such as the Pembina Valley Studio Tour and the Morden & District Horticultural Society.
“I just want to do whatever I can to help,” said Hildebrand. “I’ve just kind of got my finger in a lot of pots, and I have a lot of interests.
“A lot of the things that I do, I like to collaborate … do background things to keep things moving and collaborate with people, nurture other people with whatever it is they are doing.”
With the horticulture society, especially during the pandemic when there was very little going on at the time, she wanted to help keep it going, Hildebrand shared.
She has also spent countless hours helping out at the Pembina Hills Art Gallery, especially during a number of staff transitions in recent years, because she is passionate about the role of arts programming in the community.
“I’m just always trying to see how we can network,” Hildebrand said. “A citizen is like a tree in the forest, and we’re all in the forest together.
“We’re all part of the community here … we’re all part of it. It’s all helping others to make it better for everyone, and I get to enjoy it too at the same time.”
“Her long-standing commitment, knowledge, generosity and creativity have significantly enriched the lives of many residents in our community,” Hildebrand’s nomination for the honour cited. “During many years of volunteering and supporting the gallery, she dedicated enormous number of hours to volunteering, and she does it at its very best.”
Her time at the gallery has included playing an active role in ongoing renovations and improvements, teaching numerous art classes, and volunteering her time organizing fundraising events.
“She has played a crucial role in organizing and supporting key fundraising events that sustain free community programming, including the annual Christmas Craft Market, which is one of the gallery’s most important benchmark events,” the nomination said. “Funds raised through this event directly support free children’s programming in the community. Her hands-on involvement has helped ensure the event’s continued success year after year.
“On numerous occasions, Margie has taken on a significant workload in organizing the annual chili bowl fundraising event. This event raises funds that cover free arts and crafts programming for the community. Her ability to coordinate, mobilize volunteers and manage event details has been essential to the success of the event for many years.
“There have been several critical moments when the gallery required urgent help or additional support. In those situations, Margie stepped forward without hesitation and without expecting any compensation for the huge work she has done.”
Hildebrand has also volunteered at numerous other community events, including the Corn & Apple Festival, Winterfest, and Arbor Day, to name a few.
“Many times, she volunteered her time, expertise, and labour simply because she believes deeply in the value of arts and community,” nominators said. “Her willingness to act in difficult circumstances reflects exceptional leadership and commitment.”
An official award presentation and reception is in the works, with the date still to be determined.
