Over the Labour Day weekend, I had the privilege of volunteering at Canada’s Largest Ribfest, once again as Beverage Tent Captain.

Running the beverage tent is always one of my highlights of the year. The energy, the pace, and the teamwork make it something special. It is about much more than serving drinks, it’s about the moments in between. Swapping stories with fellow volunteers, laughing together during the busiest stretches, and celebrating the small wins as a team.

What struck me most this year was the range of people I got to work with. Volunteering introduces you to people from all walks of life, people you might never cross paths with otherwise. And yet, when you’re shoulder to shoulder making things happen, you connect in such a genuine way. Those connections are what make me come back every year.

Rotary’s ideal of “Service Above Self” comes to life in that tent. Every shift feels like a mix of accomplishment, community spirit, and friendship. And when you step back at the end of the weekend, you realize the impact goes far beyond the beverages, it’s about strengthening the bonds in our community while supporting causes that matter.

It’s an experience that leaves you tired in the best way, proud of what was achieved, and grateful for the people you shared it with.

Friendship. Service. Accomplishment. That’s the spirit of volunteering at Ribfest.