Calling Lake Mennonite Voluntary Service

Notes - Millie Glick summarizes the purpose of and some major accomplishments of the Mennonite Voluntary Service Unit during 1955-1969 in Calling Lake, Alberta. Approximately 60 Mennonites came from the USA to serve in the Voluntary Unit. The Unit's purpose was to "provide opportunities for Mennonite young persons to become involved in areas of need, give them an away-from-home group living experience, expose them to other lifestyles, cultures, and ways of looking at life and invite them to integrate their Christian faith in practical ways." The Unit was very beneficial in providing educational, medical, agricultural, and employment opportunities in Calling Lake and surrounding areas. The Unit provided a nurse, a temporary health unit, and then advocated for and acted as a liaison in the creation of a permanent health clinic in the community. Several economic initiatives were begun by the Unit as well. A box factory was opened, as well as Moosehorn Market and Team Products; all of which created both economic and employment opportunities for the community. About 20 of the original 60 Mennonites who came to the area have stayed on and made northern Alberta their home (6 pages)