- ATA Health and Physical Education Council executive member
- Calgary Area Field Experiences Committee member
- MyCityCare Shop of Wonders volunteer
In the heart of Okotoks, Kristine Hinton is not just a dedicated teacher but also an inspiration for her community. Hinton’s journey is one of leadership, empathy and a deep commitment to making a difference.
Hinton's volunteer spirit took root in her childhood, as her mother always encouraged the family to reach out and help others.
“Sometimes you can’t afford to donate things, but you can give the gift of time,” Hinton says.
While delving into volunteerism was easy for Hinton, taking on leadership roles didn’t come as naturally to her.
As a teenager, Hinton knew she was shy. At the same time, she was driven to make a difference and to become a strong leader, so she pushed herself to take a leadership course to prove to herself that she had the ability to lead.
Following that course, Hinton both demonstrated and honed her leadership capacity through her service to the community. Over the past few decades, she has volunteered for more than 15 different organizations.
“I feel that you can be a leader in so many ways and people don’t see they’re strong leaders themselves, but they truly have it in them.”
One memorable moment in Hinton's volunteer journey was coaching a dragon boat team composed of breast cancer survivors. Witnessing their triumph over adversity reminded her of the profound impact that people can have on the lives of others.
“That was the moment I just went, wow. It was a wonderful feeling seeing what they were capable of and helping them get there.”
For Hinton, serving others and being a leader has seeped into her career as a teacher as well.
Hinton has taken on various roles that serve the teaching profession, including school representative, local communications officer, occupational health and safety executive member, and Palliser District Teachers’ Convention Association committee member. She has also been actively working to establish a Women in Leadership Committee in her local.
Beyond her volunteer endeavors, Hinton finds balance through family time, participation in community arts and cultural events and staying physically active.
Kristine Hinton's story is one of dedication, giving time, making connections, and leaving a lasting mark on her community and profession.
Got an idea? Unsung Hero is a space dedicated to honouring ATA members past and present who have had notable achievements, either in the ATA or in their private lives. If you know of a member whom you feel should be recognized, please contact section editor Lindsay Yakimyshyn at lindsay.yakimyshyn@ata.ab.ca. |
