Location: Calgary, Alberta
For many in Calgary, Christmas traditions include a tree, decorations, presents and taking the kids to visit ... Joseph Beauregard?
To his friends, he is J.R. – but to legions of children, he is Santa Claus and a mainstay of the holiday season in the Stampede City. A long-time volunteer with the local chapter of the Alazar Shriners, for years J.R. volunteered to play Kris Kringle for the traditional ‘photo with Santa’ at the Airdrie Walmart, assisted by a team of volunteer ‘elves’ he recruited. While the event was intended to be a fundraiser, no child was denied a moment and a memory with Santa.
As it turns out, those moments with Santa made as much of an impression on J.R. as it did the children – and sparked a passion for both Christmas and making kids smile. The small ‘mall Santa’ team has grown and the Walmart photo booth has evolved into a ‘Christmas experience’ at the Alazar Shrine Centre.
J.R. leads a team of 25-plus volunteers to offer a ‘pic with St. Nick’ each Yuletide season, raising thousands of dollars in support of area sick kids while ensuring that the magic of Christmas touches the hearts of visitors, both young and old.
For sharing the joy of the season in support of the community, a belated Christmas gift to J.R. Beauregard – Northern Lights Volunteer Recognition honours.
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