When Mandy Fuller stepped into the Animator role in Castor, Alberta, she didn’t set out to transform her community overnight. Instead, she focused on small, meaningful steps — and those steps have grown into projects that are now inspiring joy, connection, and resilience across generations.
One of Mandy’s biggest successes began with something simple: coffee. She noticed senior men in her community, especially those moving into the lodge, often felt a loss of purpose. So, she helped start a weekly men’s coffee group. What began with about 18 participants quickly grew to nearly 30. “At first, we just sat looking at each other,” Mandy laughed. “But now they share stories, tease each other, and bring in news from around town. It’s huge for their sense of belonging.”
Bridging generations has also been a theme in Castor. A pen pal program between Grade 7–8 students and seniors at the lodge and manors turned into more than just letters. Friendships formed, pizza parties were shared, and even when mobility kept some seniors from attending in person, the youth felt a deep sense of connection. “You could see how disappointed the kids were when they couldn’t meet their pen pals,” Mandy recalled. “That’s how you know the program really mattered.”
Youth engagement has been another area of focus. Mandy organized hands-on activity days where teens carved walking sticks, made paracord bracelets, tried leatherwork, and ended with a high-energy Nerf battle. These gatherings gave youth from different schools and backgrounds a chance to connect beyond cliques and build friendships in a fun, low-pressure environment.
The community-wide Wellness Fair was another milestone. Despite harsh weather, the event brought together a diverse range of local supports — from the library and recreation programs to gyms, physiotherapists, addiction services, and even alternative wellness practitioners. For Mandy, the fair was a proud moment: “It showed that wellness isn’t just about one thing. From birth to death, we have people and resources in our community who can walk alongside you.”
What stands out most in Castor is how these projects have shifted conversations. Seniors are speaking more openly about their well-being. Parents are asking for more family activities. Youth are building confidence and empathy. And community members are stepping up with their own ideas to keep the momentum going.
Mandy’s story is a reminder to Animators everywhere: you don’t need to start big to make a big impact. Sometimes, it’s as simple as pulling up a chair, pouring a cup of coffee, and creating space for people to connect.
Watch the full video interview with Mandy to hear her reflections and stories in her own words.