April 6 to 12 is National Volunteer Week, recognizing Canada’s 13.3 million volunteers and celebrating the incredible efforts of the many volunteers who contribute to their communities, making it a better place to live, work and play.
A 2010 survey noted that on a national basis, volunteers contribute a total of 2.1 billion hours or the equivalent of 1.1 million full-time jobs. Volunteers typically contribute 156 hours per year toward a wide variety of projects.
“At East Wellington Community Services, our volunteers are the heart and soul of our agency,” Erika Westcott, EWCS manager of community and volunteer services, said in a press release. “Our volunteers are incredibly dedicated and energetic – always ready to lend a hand and share their vast experiences and skills within our programs and services.
“From assisting with food drives, staffing our New to You and Bookend stores, assisting in the children and seniors programs, volunteer drivers, fundraising and special events, information and front desk reception … there are so many ways that our volunteers contribute to make [EWCS] a great agency whose combined total of volunteer hours in 2013 topped more than 10,000 hours.”
Westcott added, “We couldn’t do what we do as an agency without their many dedicated volunteer hours and enthusiasm. Volunteering is a part of who we are as Canadians.”
Today, volunteers are involved in more ways than ever before. They govern organizations as board members. They lead efforts when disasters strike. Every day, Canadians lend a hand to their neighbors and friends.
“On behalf of the staff at [EWCS], we want to thank each of our volunteers,” said Westcott.
“Thank you for sharing your time, energy and skills with us – it is through your efforts that our agency continues to thrive and is able to respond to the community services needs within East Wellington. Happy National Volunteer Week.”
Currently EWCS is seeking volunteers for a number of tasks. For more information on these opportunities, contact Erika at 519-833-9696 (Erin) or Rick 519-856-2113 (Rockwood).
The Town of Erin will be honouring area volunteers at the Celebrate Erin event on April 12, at Centre 2000.
This year, the evening will feature a catered buffet dinner through David’s Restaurant, light entertainment and a showcase of volunteers and their projects and activities.
For information, visit www.erin.ca or call 519-855-4407.
