Introducing the 2025 Elkford Citizen of the Year!
The District of Elkford is thrilled to announce the 2025 Citizen of the Year: Colin Standish!
From the soccer field to the slopes, and the trails to the courts, Standish has a passion for building community that makes him an MVP among volunteers. A true community trailblazer—literally and figuratively—he is best known for his volunteer work as a co-founding member (and the current president) of the Elkford Trails Alliance (ETA). When he’s not clearing a path for others to enjoy the outdoors, he is involved in his community in many other ways, including coaching Elkford’s next generation of soccer and basketball stars and sitting on the Official Community Plan Advisory Committee.
"Colin grew up in Elkford and has become one of its most passionate advocates, constantly working to help the community grow,” says one of his nominators. “As president of the ETA, he's helped put our town on the map by volunteering for countless local events and other clubs, as well. From coaching youth sports to organizing outdoor outings, I admire how committed he is to making Elkford inclusive and vibrant for all."
As a resident of Elkford for the past 29 years, Standish is no stranger to volunteer work. The common thread that unites Standish’s volunteer resume over the years—beginning with junior ski patrol at Wapiti Ski Hill and continuing with involvement in various groups such as the Elkford ATV Club, Elkford Snowmobile Association and the Elkford Curling Club—is his love of sports and outdoor recreation. A lifetime of involvement in sports has also shown him how effectively these things bring people together.
“Sports inspire teamwork, leadership and discipline,” says Standish, “and coaching soccer and basketball is a rewarding way for me to help youth take part in these things. Volunteer involvement is also a form of teamwork, and the clubs and groups in Elkford have developed a collaborative and inclusive network here. This type of inclusive community helps all groups, and the larger community, to support a wide range of offerings that benefit everyone. Despite being a small town, Elkford pulls together in many ways that make it mighty!”
Unsurprisingly, another thing that Standish loves about Elkford is its proximity to nature—and he’s dedicated to helping others enjoy it! Originally the director of communications, Standish was inspired by the group’s shared sense of enthusiasm and willingness to tackle challenges from day one. Since its formation, he has been involved with the ETA in many ways: organizing/leading volunteers for trail maintenance and construction, youth engagement, liaising with other community groups, grant writing, leadership and coordinating the ETA’s involvement in community events.
“Colin is very passionate about his role as president of the ETA, and he’s passionate about making a difference in general,” says another nominator. “He is always looking for ways to create new trails and expand our trail networks. Something that I appreciate the most about Colin is his willingness to pitch in and help wherever he can.”
“On behalf of the District of Elkford and our community, we want to thank Colin for his incredible contributions as a citizen and volunteer,” says Elkford’s Mayor Steve Fairbairn. “Whether he’s breaking trails through the bush, coaching our kids, or showing up for many of the clubs and groups that keep Elkford thriving, he’s the kind of person who makes a real difference. It’s an honour to share the trails with him, and we’re very proud to call him our 2025 Citizen of the Year!”
