A former rodeo competitor helped create what is now one of the biggest stampede charity events and is our Inspiring Albertan this week.
Eighteen years ago, recently retired steer wrestler, Ron Scott and another cowboy met with an oil industry leader.
The oilman said he always entertained a lot of people during Stampede but he never got to meet a cowboy.
“I suggested that maybe he get some of his corporate people together and I, tom and I, get some of our rodeo friends together and we have a cocktail party. So that's kinda where the idea started and I figured if we were gonna do this, all this work, why don't we do it for a charity?” said Scott.
As Scott was considering what charity to sponsor, he encountered Hull Child and Family Services and learned about William Roper Hull, an early Calgary entrepreneur and philanthropist.
“William Roper Hill was an entrepreneur, cowboys are entrepreneurs. I’m an entrepreneur. The City of Calgary is entrepreneurs. I thought this would be a great fit, to raise money for Hull Child and Family Services,” said Scott.
For the organization it's been a tremendous benefit.
“I think Ron first of all appreciates the vision of our founder William Roper Hull. and together, as cowboys they've come to Calgary and Ron to Hull here to help move the world forward in a positive way for the benefit of kids and families,” said Lou Zaganelli from Hull Child and Family Services.
Laurie Woelfle was working in programs at Hull when she was chosen to work with Ron on the Big Hearted Cowboys event and says it taught her that cowdoys are relentless.
“Ron never stops all year long. Trying to get a better auction item, trying to get more guests, trying to get a better facility, anything that he can to make this a better party for the kids here at Hull,” said Woelfle.
For the way he uses his rodeo background and Calgary connections to benefit children and families in our city, Rons Scott is our stampede week inspiring Albertan.
