It takes volunteers to build a community.
Sixty-four year old Carbon resident Sam Charlebois is the embodiment of that sentiment. Charlebois is one of Carbon’s most active volunteers, being president of the Carbon and Area Restoration Society, a member of the Legion, and volunteering in any cause that needs help.
“I’m mostly involved with the Carbon and area restoration society, which, originally involved the restoration of the oldest building in town. We try to keep things going, look for grants, and keep the building maintained,” said Charlebois. “Anything that comes along that needs help, we pitch in. We’re here to help promote the community and bring good things back to town.”
Charlebois came to Carbon after retiring from a 25 year career in the RCMP in 1996. Although he was posted in a number of different places, he, and his wife Susan, always made it a point to volunteer as much as they could.
“Helping people has always been my forte, so hopefully what goes around, comes around, and we make things better for everybody,” said Charlebois. “I volunteered throughout my whole career for hockey, baseball, and soccer teams, wherever I was posted, as our kids grew up.”
Charlebois can trace his roots in Carbon back to 1901, when his grandfather made the trek out west.
“Carbon is my home-town. I was born and raised on a farm near here. My grandfather came here in 1901 and my family heritage goes back to 1567,” said Charlebois.
Despite his many efforts, Charlebois feels volunteering and helping the community involves everyone and Carbon is fairly lucky in that regard. He feels, though, for small communities to continue to thrive, the younger generation needs to step up to the plate.
“I think Carbon is a great example of people helping people. We’re certainly not the only ones in the village. There are a lot of volunteers here. It makes for a better community spirit. We try to promote unity and helping each other, because we need it,” said Charlebois. “Volunteers make the difference. Otherwise, things wouldn’t work.”
