MGDA Committees: How We Share the Work and How You Can Jump In

The Manitoba Gun Dog Association is at its best when lots of members lend a hand - whether it’s running a great event, keeping the grounds in top shape, or sharing updates with the community. To make that easier (and to keep the workload reasonable for everyone), our Executive does much of its work through standing committees. Each committee is led by an Executive member (the Chair) and supported by a few key members who help keep things moving throughout the year.

How MGDA Committees Work

• Every committee has a Chair. The Chair is an Executive member who helps set priorities, coordinates volunteers, and brings updates or recommendations to the Executive when a decision or approval is needed.

• Committees handle the day-to-day action. Things like event planning, communications, and grounds work happen at the committee level so the work is shared and nothing falls through the cracks.

• The President is ex-officio on all committees. In plain language: the President is automatically part of every committee, helping everyone stay connected and stepping in to support Chairs when needed.

• Key members make it work. Chairs can invite members to help with specific pieces: scheduling, logistics, budgeting, volunteer coordination, communications, and more.

• Quick updates keep us aligned. Committees share short updates before Executive meetings: what got done, what’s next, and where help or a decision is needed.

• Money stuff stays clear and transparent. Committees can propose budgets and purchases; the Treasurer helps with tracking and reporting, and the Executive approves spending as required.

Committee Membership and Participation

Most committees are a small team; a handful of members in good standing who want to help. Some committees (especially events) grow seasonally with Event Chairs/Secretaries and extra volunteers. If you’re curious about getting involved, committees are a great place to start, you don’t need to be on the Executive, and you can contribute in a way that fits your time and interests.

Current Standing Committees (2026)

Communications Committee (Social Media, Newsletter & Website)

Chair: President - Allan Robertson

Key members: Moni Robertson, Carrie Whenhem, Linda Horner

Focus: Maintain MGDA communications, including the website and social media channels; share timely updates on events, training, policies, and volunteer opportunities.

Events Committee (CKC Sanctioned Events)

Chair: Vice-President - Medie Robinson

Key members: Event Chairpersons/Secretaries (by event)

Focus: Plan and deliver sanctioned CKC events by assigning Event Chairs/Secretaries and Judges, supporting logistics and volunteer planning, and ensuring the club is prepared for each event.

Finance and Administration (Executive Support)

Treasurer: Larry Lewarton

How this function supports committees: Tracks budgets, manages banking and records, and provides financial reporting prior to Executive meetings so committees can plan responsibly and the Executive can make informed decisions.

Secretary: Linda Horner

How this function supports committees: Manages communications and documentation (meeting scheduling, agendas/minutes, records, and required reporting), helping committees stay organized and keeping the club’s operations running smoothly.

Facilities & Equipment Committee

Chair: Director – Kyle Cooke

Key members: Colin McMichael, Bob Norris

Focus: Keep buildings and equipment safe and operational by coordinating maintenance and repairs, organizing volunteer support, and managing equipment-related needs.

Grounds Development Committee

Chair: Director – Scott Anderson

Key members: Geoff Plouffe, Charlie Ross

Focus: Plan and lead improvement projects on the grounds, including prioritizing upgrades, coordinating volunteers or contractors, managing project budgets, and ensuring safety for members and dogs.

Grounds Maintenance Committee

Chair: Director – James Oake

Key members: Dustin Dola, Nate Pollard

Focus: Schedule and organize ongoing grounds work (mowing, weed management, roads & water maintenance), coordinate volunteers, and keep training areas safe and usable throughout the season.

How to Get Involved

We’d love to have you involved—whether that’s pitching in once at a work party, helping at an event, or joining a committee as a key member. If there’s a committee you’d like to help with, please reach out to that Committee Chair. If you’re not sure where you fit best, contact our Secretary through the club email at manitobagundog@gmail.com and we’ll help connect you with the right group. Many hands make light work, and they also make MGDA more fun and welcoming for everyone.