The Alberta Minorities Community Association (AMCA) was delighted with how many people turned out for their New Year's dinner and dance on Dec. 31, and are now planning to make it an annual event.
The association, which launched in Wetaskiwin in late 2024, aims to bring the community together as an inclusive space for people of all nationalities, abilities and backgrounds.
With somewhere between 230 and 250 people coming through the doors, giving the new organization a chance to get to know the community and allow people an affordable way to celebrate the holiday, AMCA is considering their first event a resounding success.
Everybody enjoyed the event, they received positive comments, and people came together with "amazing unity" and they "gave happiness" back to the community, said vice president Pastor Antonio Garcia.
"We will continue that event every year," said Garcia.
Special guests at the event included MLA Rick Wilson and his daughter.
Originally meant as a fundraiser to help AMCA launch its community initiatives, the board of directors decided to open the event up by making entrance by donation only.
Only expecting 100 to 150 people, at the last minute, they received a flood of requests to reserve tickets and were "very surprised" by the final turnout.
The event was funded by the board of directors as a service to the community, and was also made possible by donations from local businesses.
Thanks to their contributions, there was enough food for everyone - from Filipino to Indian dishes and western cuisine as well. Garcia noted all the food was pork free in consideration of those who don't eat it for cultural or religious reasons, which was appreciated by attendees.
The donations collected at the door came to $1,006, which helped cover the cost of decorations.
As a first-time event, Garcia said the most important thing was everyone enjoyed it, it served the community and allowed people without the resources a way to celebrate the holiday.
The event also helped make people more aware of them and Garcia said several attendees said they'd help out with their next event.
AMCA is now looking forward to hosting another family-friendly event, possibly in the spring.
