Black Diamond’s volunteer of the year is the type of person who likes to stay moving.

Retired in 2005, Andy Melnyk volunteers for no less than five different organizations in the Black Diamond area, including the Beneath the Arch Concert series.

“I can’t sit at home and watch television or read the paper or play on the computer,” said Melnyk.

Andy Melnyk was recently named Black Diamond volunteer of the year for 2009. photo by Rick Northrop

Black Diamond town council named Melnyk volunteer of the year for 2009. His name and picture now adorns the wall of Black Diamond’s town office along with previous winners.

“I was kind of surprised because I wasn’t expecting it. It was a surprise and a little bit of an honour,” said Melnyk.

Wanting to keep busy is just part of why Melnyk volunteers so frequently. He also wants to give back to the citizens of Black Diamond.

“And helping out in the community, trying to make this a nicer place,” said Melnyk.

As part of the Black Diamond subdivision development appeal board, Melnyk hears appeals from residents looking to change zoning rules. He is also part of the Town’s parks and recreation board, the Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) board and volunteers at the Oilfields Hospital.

Melnyk has been asked to join more boards, but wants to reserve some time for himself and his family.

“I’ve been asked to but I haven’t. I thought well just a minute I better leave some time for myself,” said Melnyk.

Melnyk has three daughters who live in Calgary, which was part of the reason he and his wife decided to retire in the foothills.

He grew up east of Edmonton near Vegreville and worked in the airline business for 42 years with Canadian Airlines and Air Canada before retiring in 2005. He had stops in Montreal, Vancouver, Yukon, Toronto and Fort St. John.

“You appreciate the country a lot more if you actually live there instead of just visit,” said Melnyk. “We always knew we were coming back.”

During an appreciation dinner on Dec. 8, Melnyk was presented with his award, which he keeps at home while a plaque with his name and picture on has been hung in the town council chambers.

rnorthrop@okotoks.greatwest.ca

http://www.town.blackdiamond.ab.ca/

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