Cara Sunderland always tries to maintain an active lifestyle.
Whether it be through walking, running, kayaking, hiking or anything family orientated.
She’s worked with Digby Area Recreation Commission for the last six years as the active living manager.
In this position she gets to help others live an active life too.
“I think it’s important to be better leaders in our community,” she said.
Sunderland was nominated and won the leadership trendsetter award, at the provincial Women Active Nova Scotia Trendsetter awards in Halifax on April 14.
This is the third annual award ceremony. Awards are presented to recognize initiatives, facilities, media, individuals and groups around the province, who are making a difference for women and girls.
Sunderland is excited to be recognized provincially for her work in the Digby area.
“I feel like I’m just doing my job. It’s important to try and get more women involved and help them get active.”
Sunderland has worked on many programs in the Digby area.
“The programs wouldn’t be possibly without the on the ground leaders who help deliver our programs. It’s definitely a team effort,” she said.
Some of the events she’s organized for Digby women include female only ice time at the rink, Digby gymnastics club, girls only camping trips, women’s professional weekends and girls only programs at Digby Regional High School and Islands Consolidated.
“We want women to get out there and step outside of their comfort zone. We want Digby to be an enjoyable, healthy place for everyone to live.”
Bob Powell, recreation director at Digby Area Recreation Commission nominated Sunderland for the award.
“Cara’s professional, personal and volunteer life make her a person worthy of recognition from Women’s Active,” Powell said on her nomination form.
Powell is proud of the accomplishments Sunderland has achieved and believes she was a good fit for the award.
“I see the work she does every day, she really goes beyond what her job description is.”
Powell knows it can be hard to start new programs and get people interested, but Sunderland was able to do it, he said.
“Cara persevered and stuck with it.”
“It’s a great event and a really proud moment for DARC,” said Jean Brittain, Chair of DARC and Deputy Mayor.
The Digby Area Recreation Commission is a hub for locals to find out about what’s going on in the community.
“We’ve got the best here,” she said.
