Kate Buczulak

When Kate Buczulak first arrived in Fort McMurray, it was supposed to be temporary. She and her then-boyfriend (now husband) moved north for what they called a “three-to-five-year plan” after he received a job offer from Syncrude. Fifteen years later, they’ve bought a home, raised a family, and built a life rooted in community connection.

Originally from Carstairs, Alberta, Kate studied at Lethbridge College, earning both an Office Administration Certificate and a Business Administration Diploma, majoring in Management. These days, she’s the proud CEO of “Chateau Buczulak,” a title she uses to describe her full-time role as a stay-at-home mom. “It comes with a lot of responsibilities,” she says with a laugh, “but it’s also the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.”

The best part of her role, Kate says, is being able to give back while still being there for her son. “I get to help support families and see kids get new opportunities, and he gets to see what it looks like to pitch in. Those little moments are what make it all worth it.”

Kate’s volunteerism runs deep. She currently serves as Chair of The Hub Family Resource Centre Board of Directors, contributes to the Walter & Gladys Hill School Council and Fundraising Society, and has also supported community initiatives like the Fort McMurray Ride for Dad and local cleanup events.

Family is a huge part of what drives her. “They’re the ones who encourage me to get involved,” she says. “Whether it’s helping with everyday things or just cheering me on, their support makes it possible for me to give back. I couldn’t do it without them.”

Kate’s motivation to serve comes from a genuine belief in the power of local action. “I’ve always believed local organizations can create lasting change,” she says. “At first, I just wanted to help out where I could, but over time it’s become such a rewarding part of my life. Seeing the difference even small efforts can make for families and kids keeps me motivated.”

Looking ahead, Kate hopes to keep growing both personally and as a community leader. “I’m focusing on making more space for the things that bring me joy: time with family, travelling, and reading as many books as I can. Through volunteering, I want to keep supporting families and mentoring others stepping into leadership roles. I’d love to pass along what I’ve learned.”

Being a parent, she says, has deeply shaped her perspective on community involvement. “I know how much it means to have support, and that’s what pushes me to give back. Whether it’s helping out at school or serving on a board, I’ve learned that even small efforts can make a big difference. Being involved isn’t just an extra; it’s what helps a community thrive.”

Kate also recognizes the challenges families face today. “So many families are stretched between the cost of living, finding affordable activities, and just keeping up with everyday life,” she says. “It’s easy to feel disconnected. The solution lies in community…more supports, more opportunities to come together. When families have resources and neighbours know each other, everyone feels stronger.”

As for her role in shaping the future, Kate’s goal is simple: to keep showing up and encouraging others to do the same. “Whether it’s volunteering, joining a board, or just lending a hand at school, the more of us who pitch in, the stronger our region will be.”

At the heart of it all, Kate’s outlook is refreshingly humble. “I’m just a regular mom who said yes to one volunteer role and somehow ended up with ten,” she says, laughing. “I love this community, and I really believe we get stronger—and have more fun—when we all pitch in.”

And when she’s not at a board meeting or school event? “You’ll probably find me nose-deep in a spicy romance novel or at a book club,” she says. “It’s cheaper than therapy and way more fun.”