Julia Dalman is equal parts smiley and helpful. Her passion and curiosity for all things Ritchie are evident in the great initiatives she dreams up and makes happen. Whether it's supporting the Abundant Community program, learning more about the rich history in the hood, or getting custom Ritchie bike racks, Julia is right there sharing her talents and positive energy. Thanks Julia for helping Ritchie grow and thrive, we are so lucky to have you!
1. What is your Role on the Board?
I am the Co-Director of Liveability in Ritchie
2. Why did you volunteer?
I thought it would be a great way to get to know the Ritchie community and spend time investing in keeping Ritchie a vibrant, liveable community.
3. How long have you lived in Ritchie?
Three years.
4. Why did you pick this neighbourhood?
My partner Scott made a smart decision in buying a house in Ritchie a number of years ago, and I moved in. I could not ask for a better neighbourhood to live in!
5. What is the best thing you’ve discovered in Ritchie?
Recently, I organized a neighbourhood history walk in Ritchie led by our City Historian Laureate, Chris Chang Yen Phillips. It was so fun to learn about the old Gainers plant and the cattle escape, and see stories from the old school. I know and see Ritchie in a whole new way now.
6. What is your wish for the next 5 years in Ritchie?
I hope that in the next 5 years our community becomes even more connected, with neighbours really taking care of each other. I already see so much of that, and with ACE-Ritchie I am really hopeful that we will get there! And of course to continue our record of hosting really awesome events that bring people together.
7. What is your favourite Ritchie Event/program and why?
I love the Chilli Cook Off! It is so fun to see how excited people get about the event in advance and the community in the room during the event. It is a great place to meet people you may not see at other league events.
8. What do you do when you aren’t volunteering?
I work at Jasper Place High School as their Community Liaison. My role is to connect students to the community and help teachers create real and relevant experiences for students in their classes. I am also currently studying at the University of Alberta to attain a Masters in Education Policy Studies. When I am not working or studying, I volunteer with groups working to end sexual violence in our city and with a leadership program called Next Up. I play in my garden and go hiking/skiing lots too!
9. What book did you read last?
What is the What? By Dave Eggers (Amazing book!)
10. What’s the one thing you can’t live without?
This is cheesy, but Love, realistically. Or chocolate ;)