Last month, I had the very distinct pleasure of being involved in an event that was so much fun, so enlightening, so inspirational, and so well organized that I feel compelled to tell you about it.
On Saturday, April 18, my wife, Nancy, and I volunteered to help at an event called Illuminate Nova Scotia. Now in its fifth year, the event, held in Shelburne and sponsored by the Hope Wesleyan Church, is put on to celebrate differently challenged individuals, those who are often relegated to the background.
But not on this night. At this event, these wonderful people take centre stage. They are propelled into the spotlight, and they are celebrated for who they are — human beings.
It is, indeed, a special event to behold, one filled with fun, laughter, excitement, happiness, joy and most of all, love for each other. The event must be experienced first-hand to fully appreciate just how truly amazing it really is.
With inclusion as its main theme, the wonderful event takes many months of planning by a group of very well-organized volunteers to make it run smoothly. They are dedicated, talented, energetic, enthusiastic, creative, and hard-working. The result is a tremendous event that is designed to celebrate a group of people from a faction of society that far too often feels ostracized and left out of the mainstream.
Chaired by the church’s pastor, Joanne Murphy-Ozon, and her husband, Mike Oxon, with the support of dozens of volunteers who freely give of their time, energy, talents and even their own money in some cases, this event is now heading into its sixth year as plans are presently being put in place for 2027.
I can’t say enough good things about these people who come together for one purpose and that is to create an event at which judgement is not welcome. When you come to this event, you check your judgement and skepticism at the front door.
Joanne, Mike, and their entire team of volunteers must be commended for recognizing a need in the community and then answering that call with vision, compassion, and unbridled enthusiasm. Bravo to everyone involved, from the people who decorate the hall, to the people who help serve food, to the people who do registration, those who stuff goody bags and paint fingernails or shine shoes, those who take pictures and provide the music.
There are no small or menial jobs when pulling off an event of this magnitude.
This year’s event brought together 105 special guests and 105 volunteer buddies who remain with their guests throughout the entire evening, providing support, encouragement, guidance, and, most of all, friendship. This is an important component of the Illuminate project as it is imperative that everyone have a friend throughout the duration of the event.
Additionally, at least another 55 to 60 other volunteers, carrying out a variety of duties and responsibilities, ensure the evening runs smoothly. And run smoothly, it did. As volunteers and participants gathered for the evening, the hall buzzed with excitement and energy. The feelings of warmth and friendship were infectious. In a word, it was simply electric.
It must also be pointed out that the community in general has also overwhelmingly responded in a positive manor to Illuminate Nova Scotia with businesses and individuals stepping up with donations of cash, food, prizes, photography, hair stylists, drivers, security and even the wonderful venue itself, the Shelburne fire hall. It is, indeed, a community event, embraced by people throughout the entire province and well beyond.
Even the RCMP are involved, with officers in uniform and red serge escorting the special guests of honour down the red carpet. It is quite the spectacle to behold and a heart touching moment to witness the emotions these people feel as the spotlight falls on them for their grand entrance.
For these special guests, Illuminate Nova Scotia provides a safe, welcoming, non-judgemental, and comfortable environment where they can be with their friends and peers to celebrate who they are — people with hopes, dreams, aspirations, wants, desires, love, devotion, and abilities.
For a few hours these participants can come together and just be themselves without judgement, just as it should be. It truly was an amazing event and that takes place every year right here in our backyard.
