If you’re one of the people who find themselves distracted by the colourful signs posted around town, you might be wondering who some of these people are.
Rachel Harder is one of them. Hers is the blue one scattered along scenic drive and throughout most parts of the city.
She is the Lethbridge candidate for the Conservative Party. You may have heard the name but do you know anything about her?
Well, she’s young, energetic, full of life and most importantly she cares.
Harder cares for what she is doing and cares for people. Most importantly, she cares about Lethbridge.
Harder grew up on a small farm in Kathryn, Alberta.
She attended college in the Village of Briercrest Saskatchewan, where she was named young alumnus of the year in 2012, before moving back to Alberta to attend the University of Lethbridge.
She graduated with a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences.
Outside of campaigning Harder works as an independent youth and young adult consultant.
She has had the chance to work with young people and is proud of what she has been able to accomplish.
“I’ve traveled from coast to coast; to sit down with people and hear their story and understand why they think the way they think,” said Harder. “To be able to inspire them, to encourage them, to infirm them and train them to get to where they want to go, there’s nothing more rewarding then that.”
Harder feels fortunate to have been able to take young people under her wing and being able to build into them.
Harder was raised in a family who spent a lot of time volunteering.
From there her passion grew for serving the community, which eventually led her on the path to politics.
For her, being in government is an opportunity to help make a difference and to build a more vibrant community.
“I believe in freedom, I believe in entrepreneurship, I believe in innovation and I believe in creativity,” said Harder. “These are the fundamental principles of my party and what we stand for.”
Rick Dempsey, Harder’s Campaign Manager, was introduced to Harder while running as the Conservative nominee in the spring of 2014.
Dempsey said it was easy to support Harder based on her strong character and believes she is exactly what this community needs.
“Rachael is someone who is a very good listener, a very good connecter and always wants the best for everyone around her,” said Dempsey. “She is always receptive and always want to know more about you. She enjoys engaging herself with who you are and what you are about. “
Evan Harasem, local resident and Harder supporter, feels that her personality can help make Lethbridge a better place to live.
“She can do a tonne, she seems like she is strong and confident and is able to get things done when she needs to,” Harasem said. “She can get a lot done for this city.”
Harder and her team claim to have knocked on every single door in the community and have now started knocking on doors a second time through.
According to her team, it’s definitely a challenge in doing so, but they’re more than happy to go the extra mile.
“Ideally, my goal would be to have a face-to-face conversation with every single person in my constituency,” said Harder.
