More than 200 volunteers gathered at Westhills Park in Victoria, British Columbia, on May 24, 2025, rolling up their sleeves for a massive community cleanup aimed at reducing wildfire risk. The event was part of a celebration marking the 50th anniversary of the Victoria British Columbia Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The day of service was a meaningful way to celebrate this milestone by giving back to the community and benefiting the environment.
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| Temple Square is always beautiful in the springtime. Gardeners work to prepare the ground for General Conference. © 2012 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. | 1 / 2 |
The cleanup was organized in partnership with the Langford Residents Association (LRA), the city of Langford and FireSmart BC. Volunteers, comprising Church members and local residents, cleared nearly 8,000 cubic feet of invasive plants and debris from a community park, removing broom, blackberry, gorse, wood and even metal. LRA President Jeff Byam estimated the haul was approximately 115 pickup truckloads of waste.
“I feel genuinely honoured that our organization and the city of Langford were able to collaborate in this service project,” Byam said. “The Church’s involvement in this volunteer event speaks volumes about its commitment to community service.”
Equipped with shovels, gloves and tarps, volunteers of all ages worked together. For many, the day was about more than just hard work — it was an opportunity to connect with the community and make a tangible difference. “[Serving] removes me from my personal bubble; it helps me forget myself and focus on others,” said Melanie Faganello, a local Church member.
This gives me a unique opportunity with all the other volunteers to put my beliefs into action,” added Sharon Broadwood, an addiction recovery specialist for the Church.
It just feels good to make a difference,” said Church member Liane Lyle.
Victoria British Columbia Stake Communication Director Dale Ruttan, who helped with the event, noted, “Being able to celebrate the stake’s 50th anniversary through a community service project shows our desire to give back. The focus on fire prevention made it especially meaningful, and working closely with local organizations was a unifying effort.”
Jackson Ellis of the Nanaimo British Columbia Stake said, “When you serve others, you invite the Spirit into your life. It unites us; we get to know each other as we work shoulder to shoulder and create everlasting bonds of friendship — all while helping a cause such as this.”
Gary Anderson, Victoria British Columbia Stake president, emphasized, “We feel that sense of belonging as we serve. We see here faith in action by generations. The tender mercies of the Lord are manifest as we serve others.”
After working in the park, volunteers and community members gathered for a celebratory luncheon and program. The event included a video highlighting the history of the Church on Vancouver Island, musical performances, and messages from visiting
As the anniversary celebration concluded, the message was clear: Working together for the good of the community not only strengthens neighbourhoods but also creates lasting friendships and a sense of belonging.
Richard Purnell, Victoria British Columbia Stake activities director, expressed gratitude to Byam for organizing the service opportunity: “We’ve had nothing but positive feedback from our Church members, and it’s sparking discussions about the need for us to do this more often. I hope we can serve together in the future.”
For more about the history of the Church on Vancouver Island, see this video: “50th Anniversary Presentation.”