It’s not just the fact that Burkeville is geographically cut off from the rest of Richmond that separates it from the city.
After all, there can’t be too many neighbourhoods where everyone knows everyone and their business.
But that’s just the way Burkvillians on Sea Island like it and they wouldn’t have it any other way.
And it all serves to create a tight and engaged community; case in point on Sunday when the Sea Island elementary gym was packed out with 135 adults and children, eager to catch a glimpse of the man in the big red suit at Sea Island Community Association’s (SICA) annual Breakfast with Santa.
“We host a number of events throughout the year and Breakfast with Santa is one of the biggest,” said one of the event’s lead organizers, Stephanie Monaghan.
The modest $7 ticket for the event breakfast and meeting with Santa was all subsidized by SICA, with the help of donations from the local supermarkets and Starbucks, as well some members of the Burkeville community chipping in with a Costco run.
Monaghan, who’s also a Grade 1 teacher in Vancouver, said she’s spent more time since Halloween organizing Sunday’s big event than on her paid job. Not that she’s complaining, of course, as Monaghan is more than happy to help keep Burkeville special.
“I’ve got two kids, a son, 6, and a daughter, 3, and I went along to one of the (SICA) meetings to find out what’s happening in my community. That was it,” said Monaghan.
“Burkeville is a living, breathing community; it’s a bit isolated and contained, but that’s the way we like it. You can’t avoid people here; our kids are all around each other all the time and you know every adult and kid. There’s something very safe about all of that.”
Other annual SICA events include an Easter Egg Hunt, Burkeville Daze and Halloween fireworks display.
Got community spirit?
If you organize neighbourly get togethers or events, no matter how small, let the Richmond News know about it by emailing [email protected] with the subject “Community Spirit.” Or call 604-249-3342. Who knows, your good example may spread to other communities and neighbourhoods across the city.
