High River is home to about 2,000 Filipinos and after the flood in 2013 a few people within the tight-knit community decided to start their own group to give back.

Filipino Canadian High River Association President Ryan Zabala says they have been overwhelmed by the support of the High River community over the years.

"We started with 10 or 12 people and our goal is to return the favor, and volunteer throughout the community and especially help the newcomers adjust to their new home."

He says the Association is in place to preserve and promote the Filipino heritage among their members and the residents of High River.

He says they often have activities and welcome anyone to participate.

"We do many activities as well, a couple of months ago we participated in a disaster preparedness program. Our main focus right now is to raise more funds in our own little way to assist with our programs and activities."

He say's among the events and activities they have include music clinics for youth and have organized a basketball team that represents High River every year in Calgary.

Zabala says their goal is to share their heritage through involvement in charitable educational and cultural activities and help newcomers adjust to life in Canada.

"We did our Independence Day program in George Lane Park, to bring awareness to the community and help our people not to be too homesick."

He says the Association nurtures the talents and abilities of Filipinos locally so they can provide better social activities and volunteer within the community