Community Connections: Victoria Trail Agricultural Society

The Victoria Trail Agricultural Society (VTAS) is a not-for-profit community group that provides programs, services, and facilities to Waskatenau, Alberta, and the surrounding area.

They recently acquired MCSnet’s complimentary internet service, and we’re excited to hear how our Community Connections Program has made a difference in their organization.

What’s your mission, purpose, and passion as an organization?

In 1961, an enthusiastic group of community members gathered to form an agricultural society and pledged to work toward the betterment of farming, living, and the community. VTAS continues that work today through the operation of:

• Indoor arena for riders, horse shows, livestock clinics, and special events
• State-of-the-art fitness centre for the local community
• Outdoor skateboard, basketball and ice-skating park
• Community events, including an annual fair

How has MCSnet’s donation and complimentary internet connection positively impacted your organization?

MCSnet’s complimentary service provides connectivity for VTAS members and users in areas with weak cell signals. It enables us to facilitate building security to keep the community safe and our facilities in good condition. 

Why are you enthusiastic about helping Albertans?

Alberta has a lot to offer its residents, and VTAS is proud to enhance and encourage the rural lifestyle in our province.  

In what ways has the internet opened up opportunities for your organization?

Complimentary internet reduces our overall operating expenses, which allows VTAS to focus more on community activities and facility improvements.

Can you tell us your favourite story about how you’re making a difference?

In the past two years, we’ve had a passionate group of volunteers plan and deliver a series of gymkhana, trail challenge, and obstacle training events to bring the horse community together and introduce local youth to riding. Watching participants develop their skills and build lasting friendships has been a pleasure. 

What does making real connections in your community mean to you?

Making genuine connections means providing facilities, events, and opportunities to bring the community together, attract new residents and businesses to the area, and enhance the rural way of life for future generations. 

If you had one piece of advice for organizations looking to improve connections in rural Alberta, what would it be?

Ask yourself, what kind of future do you imagine for rural Alberta? You can pursue new activities and initiatives to meet community needs once you understand what they are. 

We see rural Alberta reinforcing the benefits of being community-minded and supporting our neighbours, as well as encouraging participation in and appreciation of agriculture for the welfare of all Albertans.