RCL Executive Spotlight
Allan Bolstad is a bit of a League expert. In fact, up until his recent retirement, he worked for the Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues. These days, his efforts have been honed to his local nieghbourhood and we couldn't be happier. Whether it's volunteering on the Board of Directors, setting up tables at our BBQs, planning Community League Day or thinking about how best to fundraise for our new hall, Allan is a great asset. Thanks Allan for your experience and enthusiasm! 

1. What is your Role on the Board?
Director at Large

2. Why did you volunteer?
To make some new friends and help the league with its programs and events.

3. How long have you lived in Ritchie?
Eight years

4. Why did you pick this neighbourhood?
Lots of reasons.  It was close to the Edmonton Federation of Community League (EFCL) Office,  where I worked, as well as the U/A Hospital, where my wife Barb works, had good transit and lots of shops and restaurants along Whyte Avenue, many mature trees and of course the ravine with its bicycle path directly behind our house.

5. What is the best thing you’ve discovered in Ritchie?
How so many people live here because they want to be here and are ready to pitch in with the league and help make the neighborhood a better place.

6. What is your wish for the next 5 years in Ritchie?
That the community league thrives and helps ensure that our neighborhood remains an open and welcoming place.

7. What is your favourite Ritchie Event/program and why?
I’m partial toward Community League Day, as I was instrumental in getting the whole thing started when I was at the EFCL and believe it will help raise the profile of leagues generally.

8. What do you do when you aren’t volunteering?
I’ve been travelling a fair bit since I retired last summer (the photo is taken on a road up to an old fort just outside of Jaipur, India) and I serve on the city’s Subdivision and Development Appeal Board. 

9. What book did you read last?
Born to Run (an autobiography on Bruce Springsteen)

10. What’s the one thing you can’t live without?
Going places and doing things with our son Brendan (we’re pretty tight).