Lori Harasem running for Coalhurst council

Submitted

Coalhurst is at a pivotal moment. We have seen significant residential growth, but have not seen the same increase in services and leisure activities, including businesses, jobs, and supports. I believe a strong, long-term vision needs to be developed for the community that utilizes thorough community engagement and planning, so that we grow in a thoughtful, intentional, and meaningful way. I look forward to the growth of businesses, services, and recreation and leisure activities for all members of the community. My grandfather was one of the first people to be born in Coalhurst (1913) and I’d love for him to see where this town is at now and to go full circle in helping lead it towards a future that puts it on the map as a sought-after place to live, work, and play.

I spent almost 19 years working in municipal government where not only did I support recreation, sports, arts, culture, social services, parks and tourism, and making things happen like events, programs, activities, and facilities, but I have a background as a professional fundraiser so would do so by accessing federal and provincial funding, and through the creation of campaigns seeking sponsor and donor support. I was seconded to being the pandemic social response manager and oversaw and facilitated the work of the social services sector from 2020-2021, helping earn Lethbridge recognition from the United Nations and World Health Organization for the framework we created and operated under.

I volunteer on numerous boards and teach board governance, strategic planning, fund development, grant writing, volunteer recruitment and retention, and many other non-profit related topics to boards and organizational leaders, as well as at conferences. A resident of Coalhurst for 18 years, my kids are now all grown and I have the time to dedicate to something I am passionate about – community development utilizing collective impact, strong relationships and collaborations and partnerships. In 2023 I received the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for work and volunteerism I have done and been involved in. In my spare time, I love to read and swim.