When people talk about Cochrane, the special feeling of the Town is something that often comes up.
Somehow Cochrane has continued to rapidly grow and welcome new faces, while maintaining the feeling of being a small town.
The experience makes Cochrane a great place to live and a community we can be proud of.
One of the reasons we have been able to strike that balance is through dedicated volunteers and philanthropists who collectively work to bring the town together.
Organizations that include the Cochrane Activettes, Helping Hands Society of Cochrane & Area, Rotary Club, the Boys and Girls Club of Cochrane and Area, Seniors of the Bow, Big Hill Haven Women's Shelter and so many others are critical pieces of our social fabric.
Together they ensure we are united as a community, and no one falls through the gaps when they are in need.
These volunteers lead the way in innovation and can serve as an inspiration to remind us we all have a role to play in making our town welcoming and inclusive for everyone.
That spirit of community is no better demonstrated than by the upcoming 2020 Labour Day Parade (Display).
Cochrane and Area Events Society volunteers have rallied together to help bring a festive feeling to Cochrane even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
They have adapted to public health protocols to create a fun event that shines a light on important businesses and organizations in Cochrane.
Their dedication to the town and finding ways for us to remain connected are inspiring and can remind us of the importance of stepping up to make sure no one is left behind.
More importantly, this year’s parade marshal Jag Thind, owner of Mehtab East Indian Cuisine, embodies the essence of looking after one’s neighbour.
Thind has become known in the Cochrane for his dedication to the town and the people who call it home.
During the pandemic, Mehtab has had a sign on the door inviting anyone who needs a free hot meal or a cup of coffee to come for a visit no questions asked— An amazing act of kindness that will mean the world to some who may be especially vulnerable to the economic devastation left by the wake of COVID-19.
Thind remains humble and says he is inspired by people who live in Cochrane and their dedication to making the community exceptional.
His philosophy is one we can all celebrate and practice in our everyday lives.
“Whenever there is a hurdle you have a way around,” Thind said. “Keep loving each other, keep doing what you’re doing, keep the sense of feeling in Cochrane that you don’t see anywhere else."
