Cassie Anderson

Self-described as silly, adventurous, and determined, she measures success in intentions behind words and actions, as well as integrity to self and others. YMM: Tell us about your volunteer experience in the community. CA: I volunteer in the community by hosting a number of “by donation” yoga classes in support of local non-profits, as well as hosting/cohosting some events at various businesses I’ve worked at throughout the years that support local non-profits. I love to get out and bartend events for non-profits like the Patio Party when I can! YMM: What is the most rewarding part of your career? CA: Being able to share yoga with others, and encourage others to make time for things that feel good, mind body and soul. Also, I have the opportunity to get out in the community and get to know people from all walks of life, helping where I can. YMM: What do you consider to be the best things about our community? CA: I love the amount of community we have here. Whether it be recovering from tragedy, supporting local, or just lifting each other up, there is such a HUGE amount of care that comes from our community. I love how transient our region is; you can meet someone new everywhere you turn around from all over the world, but can also run into 10 people you know at the grocery store. We really have the best of both worlds here. YMM: In your opinion, in what areas could Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo improve? CA: I would love to see more of a push for out-of-town workers to experience what we have in our community, both for supporting local businesses and also to help them feel more a part of our community. I would also love to see in the future some form of affordable rapid transportation between places like Fort McMurray and Edmonton. YMM: What does community mean to you? CA: This community very much gave me independence in many ways, and at different phases in my life, while still feeling like I wasn’t alone and could find support where/when I needed it. This community has such a “lift each other up” attitude that I am very grateful for. YMM: What is the best advice that you ever received? CA: Ego says, once everything falls into place, I will find peace. Spirit says, find peace, then everything will fall into place. Santosha, contentment. YMM: What is the biggest challenge you have taken on this year? CA: My biggest challenge to myself this year is to begin the process of really narrowing down what makes me feel fulfilled and nourished career-wise, as well as in my personal life. I’m starting to make moves to narrow down what I want my day-to-day schedule to look like for now and for the future. Organization is not my strong point, so this has been a big challenge and a process, but it feels great. YMM: For what are you most grateful? CA: I am grateful for family, and for friends who have become family, as well as my community and my pets. I am grateful for health and the privilege of aging. I am grateful for the beauty of nature that surrounds us here every day.