Eastwood Community League’s newest president and his vision
Community Highlight: Andrew Altimas
It’s said that the best leaders hesitate to call themselves leaders in the first place. If true, Andrew Altimas of the Eastwood Community League may be the best person for the role of president. After all, he didn’t intend to run for any official title — he joined his first meeting by chance on his way to a yoga class.
With only a handful of months under his belt as president, it is immediately clear how much he respects the opportunity to spearhead initiatives for his community. His approach to his growing board and the league is holistic, grounded, and immensely practical. A background in addiction support and working with the unhoused taught him that a community is made up of much more than the membership on the surface — it’s an embodiment of values.
Andrew believes “a community league is the elevation of the community — not the voices of the board itself.” In that way, he has already turned to familiar faces in the neighbourhood for inspiration from projects as large as expanding the community gardens, to small goals like repairing the hall.
“A gentleman was sitting down over a cards night recently,” Andrew says, gesturing at the warming room around him. “He got up and toured me around the entire hall, telling stories and pointing out details from the days they built it. That’s lived experience, and it’s what makes a community league special.”
As for Andrew’s accomplishments to date, he cites new security assessments, such as safe walks and cleaning the grounds, as good first steps to renewing local relationships with the league building. From there, he hopes to expand his board and learn about the community's wishes before taking on any projects that tap into grant funding.
“I like big visions, like those you see on Arnold Schwarzenegger posters. I’ve certainly had them in my personal life. But now, especially here, I believe in smart goals — even the small ones. Hall maintenance, getting the word out about the league, and following the will of the community and board are our first steps.”
Andrew's personal journey is a testament to his commitment to personal growth and healing. His practice of boxing, yoga, and spiritual arts has helped him find a centre within himself and his surroundings. This journey has not only inspired his philosophy on community leadership, but also served as a source of inspiration for others.
With the first steps to renewed leadership in place, the next piece involves you — our community members. Everyone is encouraged to gather, share experiences, and contribute to causes that inspire the area.
Connect with the league! Your ideas, skills, and initiatives are welcome. Additionally, citizens of the Eastwood neighbourhood are encouraged to register for their free league membership and take advantage of community votes, free swimming days, reduced rates on hall rentals, free skating, and much more.
“Right now, it’s about getting enough bodies for a vision,” Andrew says. From his excitement even in turning on the hall's lights to host a short interview, it’s evident that this vision is poised to include each and every one of us.
Eastwood Community League
11803 86 St
780-477-2354
info@eastwoodhub.org