Be kind, give back, buy local!
Sarah Routliffe
GNAG Executive Director
613-233-8713 | Email | Website
Be kind, give back, buy local!
Recently, as I curled up to a movie with a big bowl of popcorn and my four-legged friends, my heart was warmed by a character’s words on kindness. I truly believe that it is a trait that can easily be forgotten when our lives become busy, or the winter weather blows our plans off course.
Fortunately, there are so many moments in a day where we have the choice to be kind, to make someone’s day, to volunteer for something we believe in, to exchange a smile with a stranger on the street – all are ways of practising compassion in our community.
This topic came up the next day when Paul and I were reviewing questions for a podcast called the Glebe Community Spotlight: “What advice do you have for an aspiring leader?” We both immediately knew our answer – leading with empathy and understanding. Becoming a leader is about trying to lift others up, listening and being kind.
This community is blessed with many such leaders who have harnessed the superpower of compassion. One of them knew I was having a bad day and gifted me a book I had on my wish list as a total surprise. Thank you, Rebecca!
Kind moments are the ones to remember, and this is the perfect season for giving. Whether it’s time, friendship, a listening ear or presents, a little goes a long way. One of the ways I’m practising giving back to my community this holiday season is by shopping at the local businesses here in the Glebe!
Winter Program Registration
GNAG winter program registration opened on December 5, and we have a lot of new programs to offer.
In an effort of transparency, we have started to label everything that is NEW in our online guide. Please take a peek at all we have to offer – there are so many new talented individuals offering programs in the gorgeous Glebe Community Centre.
Programs get cancelled due to low registration very early in the new year, so please register in advance! If you wait, it might be too late. The guide is available at www.gnag.ca.
Winter Break Camp
Winter Break Camp is January 2-5! If your kids get antsy after too much time off school, please send them our way! We all have a soft spot for holiday break camps, but space is very limited so register in advance.
Spend your holidays at GNAG! We will make crafty creations, cook up some yummy treats, play wicked games and go on awesome yellow-bus out-trips!
Winter Carnival
Winter Carnival is happening Sunday, December 10, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the Main Hall. Celebrate the start of winter with an indoor carnival at the Glebe Community Centre. Get ready for an incredible party with inflatables, crafts, prizes, a photo booth and carnival games galore.
This will be the last GNAG event for Alison O’Connor who has been with our organization for many years. Ali has a teaching degree and secured a fantastic neighbourhood job teaching at First Avenue School! If you attend the event, you can wish her well and play some carnival games. Thank you for everything Ali – we are so excited for you!!
Kids under 10 must be accompanied by an adult (14 years +). Tickets are available online at www.gnag.ca/gnagevents/winter-carnival/.
Mutchmor Rink is BACK!
Mutchmor rink is back, and we could use your help in maintaining the rink! As you can imagine, there is a lot of work that goes into running a rink and keeping those skates gliding smoothly.
While we have a dedicated crew of young individuals lined up this year, we could also use the skilled hands of some adult volunteers! If you are interested, please email us at info@gnag.ca.
Thank you to councillor Shawn Menard for his generous donation of $1,000 to support the rink operations and equipment!
Watch for future details on the rink party!
See you in 2024!
As the holiday season approaches, the entire GNAG family wants to extend our heartfelt wishes to each and every one of you. From our community to yours, we wish you a season filled with warmth, joy and the company of cherished loved ones. Though the days may be short, we are hopeful that they will be illuminated by the spirit of togetherness and kindness.
