Rest, Relaxation and Reconnection by Laura Fraser, OFA Member Service Representative for Elgin and Oxford County Laura.fraser@ofa.on.ca
growth, travel, experiences, and community betterment. The Elgin club is currently in their first year since being restarted and is hoping to continue growing and becoming more involved in the community in the years to come. They are always happy to welcome new members; for more information, please reach out to Elgin Junior Farmers on Facebook or at Elgin@JFAO.ON.CA. Elgin 4-H Association is a youth organization serving parts of Elgin County. As a proud part of the 4-H Ontario family, Elgin County 4-H has been impacting the lives of youth along the north shore of Lake Erie for decades. Rurally rooted, with the motto, ‘learn to do by doing’, Elgin County 4-H strives to shape youth into the leaders of tomorrow. Through fun, hands- on activities, youth build new skills, friendships and more importantly, confidence in themselves as individuals. From dairy club to gardening club and every club in between, there is a club for everyone to enjoy and learn from. No matter if you grew up on a farm or not, all are welcome to experience 4-H and all the joys that come from being a part of a group. The local club is always looking for more volunteers to make their clubs work. Reach out to elgincounty4h@gmail.com. If you’re looking to become more engaged with your community or gain hands-on experience in the agricultural community, consider reaching out to one of the groups above. Volunteers play a crucial role in cultivating a healthier, more resilient future for us all.
With the winter months upon us and final harvests and equipment repairs behind us, many farmers will now use this time for rest and reflection. But for a growing number of agriculture workers, the off-season continues to be an opportunity, not for slowing down, but for giving back. Rural communities often rely on a close-knit support network, and farmers are a central part of that fabric. Volunteering isn’t just good for the recipients -- it also helps farmers stay connected, active and mentally engaged throughout the year. The Elgin County Federation of Agriculture is a volunteer organization that lobbies to improve the economic and social well-being of farmers in the county, providing members with information on agricultural issues and increasing public awareness of agriculture and the food system. Their board of directors meets monthly to discuss local issues and provide grassroots support to farmers in the county. For more information about meetings or joining the board, contact EFA President Greg Fentie at gfentie@hotmail.com. Junior Farmers Association of Ontario (JFAO) provides opportunities for young people of all backgrounds, aged 15- 29, but especially for those in rural Ontario, to get involved in their communities and build rural leaders through personal
REAL LIVING Rural Elgin Agricultural
Print Ad Visit us at: www.christmascarestthomas.com Registration Tuesday November 4 to Tuesday December 9 We respectfully request that donations be made by November 28 if at all possible. Memorial Arena, 80 Wilson Ave, 519-637-0710 If you need our services, register at the arena. Bring all ID and register early. We are especially in need of: peanut butter / jam, cereal (no sugar please), fruit / pudding cups, canned meat/fish, hearty soups / stews, canned vegetables, pasta / sauce, jello, dried soups, stuffing mix, kraft dinner, Lego, science kits, craft kits, baby toys and novels. Donations of food and new, unused toys can be dropped off at the auditorium or at drop boxes around town including Elgin Centre. Please consider donations of club packs or cases of food as this requires less sorting than individual packages. Please also consider monetary donations as with bulk Visit us at: www.christmascarestthomas.com. Registration Nov. 9 to Dec. 10 Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Elgin Centre Mall 519-637-0710 We are especially in need of: Peanut butter/jam cereal (no sugar please) Fruit/pudding cups Hearty soups/stews canned meat/fish canned vegetables Pasta/sauce jello Soups purchasing we can stretch our grocery dollars (buying a skid of dressing is cheaper than individuals donating a box each). stuffing mix KD If you need our services, you can register at the mall. Bring all ID and register early. Donations of non-perishable food, new toys and money will be accepted at the Elgin Centre Mall or at drop boxes around town. Also watch for our food drives happening this month. See us at the Santa Claus parade where donations will be gratefully accepted. Watch for us at the Santa Claus Parade! Interested in volunteering? Contact us at info@christmascarestthomas.com if you are willing. Scan me to donate now! SCAN ME TO DONATE NOW
Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor / Sales
Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Geoff@villagerpublications.com • 519-495-7177 All articles written by Geoff Rae unless otherwise indicated. Copy Editor – Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher: Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Photos, community events and article suggestions welcome.
Interested in volunteering? We especially will need drivers this year. Contact us if you are willing.
Page 12 Real Living • Fall 2025
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