Oyen Handibus Association president steps down
By Joan Janzen
The Oyen Community Handibus plays an important role in that community and operates through the Oyen Handibus Association, a not-for-profit organization. After serving as president for the past seven years, Tracy Hudson stepped down, and James Walker took her place. The group held their first in-person meeting on February 16th, after a lapse of two years.
Hudson began volunteering as a driver. “In the beginning, I did a lot of trips to Empress or the tea house. My grandpa was around, so I always took jobs to be with him. If I knew he was going on a trip, I would take the opportunity to spend time with him,” she explained. “I could take my little ones with me if there was room, and they could hang out with their great-grandpa.”
Those years volunteering as a driver hold fond memories for Tracy. She would take a group of ladies grocery shopping at Cereal once a week, and afterwards, the ladies would take her out for lunch.
“They’re great to hang around. It doesn’t feel like work; you hear great stories, see what’s around the area and hang out with good people,” she said. “And you get to see what we have in the Oyen area. The tea house was my favourite.”
Throughout her term as president, Tracy willingly offered her services and knowledge to help the board decide how to promote the Handibus. Transportation was offered to community events, shopping downtown, rides to the Acadia Valley elevator tea trips, Special Area and Empress tours, Rosebud Theatre productions, and transportation to Medicine Hat.
The Oyen Handibus has benefitted the community of Oyen for the past 33 years and is well used. It can transport eighteen passengers with room for two wheelchairs, with transportation within the town of Oyen available free of charge. The Oyen Auxiliary Hospital and the Seniors Lodge contribute to the operating budget.
The Handibus has also been used for lab work appointments, funerals, weddings, the Farmers’ Market, and much more. It was started in May of 1989 and involves Board members, drivers and casino fundraising volunteers.
Tracy expressed appreciation for everyone who contributes through donations or service. The Handibus board also appreciates the support it has received from the Oyen Fire Department, past, present and in the future. Anyone wanting to help out in any capacity can call Manfred Schroeder.
Past president Hudson said, “I really hope people understand how much the Handibus helps seniors in the community.” Seniors don’t feel they have to impose upon family members to drive them around. “It would be a huge loss if it wasn’t there. If somebody is looking for a simple, volunteer job - the board is great. If you drive - it’s a great opportunity because you can enjoy the trips along with your passengers.”
While Tracy has stepped down as president, she is more than happy to fill in as a driver when needed.
Tracy Hudson and James Walker
