HR expert is a ‘cowboy volunteer’ in her spare time

Other Life: Vicki Blais, of Acera Insurance, is proud she can give back to a city that has given her so much

HR expert is a ‘cowboy volunteer’ in her spare time

Vicki Blais works as a Senior Client Service Specialist & HR Coordinator for Acera Insurance Services. In this role, Ms Blais supports clients with their group benefits and HR needs. But when she is not at work, Ms Blais pulls on her cowboy boots and hat and spends much of her free time giving back to her community.

Based in Calgary, AB, she began her volunteer work in 2008 with the Calgary Stampede. The Calgary Stampede is a not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates the city's western heritage, cultures, and community spirit. Supported by over 2,500 passionate volunteers, its year-round events, programs, and initiatives invest in youth, support agricultural programs, celebrate western culture and make a lasting economic impact in the city.

“I love what the Calgary Stampede does,” says Ms Blais. “It gives back to the community, creates many jobs, and supports the city economically.”

Ms Blais volunteers on three Calgary Stampede committees: promotion, royalty, and horse show. She also volunteers with Special Olympics, and La Due Ladies Lunch, which offers an annual scholarship to young women. Ms Blais has been nominated for a Calgary White Hat Award, which recognizes individual achievements in the city’s tourism and hospitality industry.

“I love living in Alberta and I love living in Calgary,” she says. “I like to support organizations that support individuals in our community. It gives me a chance to give back to a city that gives so much to me.”