Was it a fluke or destiny that got Sherry Sutherland on the board of the East Richmond Community Association 25 years ago?
At the time, she was presenting a report to the board but, for some reason, her name was recorded as an actual board member in the minutes — it just stuck. Rules and regulations were a little looser in those early days, she recalled.
Twenty five years later, Sutherland is calling it a day. But while she said it’s time to retire, she feels she’s leaving a board with a bright future, with a desire to hear new ideas.
Over the years, Sutherland has served on a variety of board committees; she was involved in building the community centre, the water park and the gathering place.
She always aimed to be thoughtful of the community and said ERCA provided “fancy programs” for those “less fortunate.”
The association is not a money-making group, said Sutherland, but is community minded. Each year, the association gives a scholarship to a Cambie secondary graduate who is community minded.
ERCA partners with the City of Richmond; the city funds the Cambie Community Centre, paying for its staff and building expenses, whereas ERCA organizes fundraisers and volunteer programs.
Friends will keep Sutherland connected and updated on board news, even after retirement.
“To say that Sherry is our star volunteer does not adequately capture the depth of what she has meant to our community. As a matter of fact, she is a jewel in Cambie’s crown,” said the president of ERCA, Balwant Sanghera, in an email.
“I want to thank the ERCA for allowing me the opportunity to be part of their group…I feel more connected to my community and my city,” Sutherland said.
Sutherland plans to still help out in special events such as the Free Movie Night on Aug. 4 at King George Park.
Sutherland will continue her job as a library technician at Steveston-London Secondary.
