Volunteers—A Community’s Gift

Volunteers are the lifeblood of our communities. Their gift of time, effort and energy, enriches all of our lives. Take a moment to think of how volunteers have made a difference in your life.

The thousands of volunteer hours that Ontarians generously dedicate to the growth of our communities gives rise for recognition. Year after year, Ontarians contribute to the well being of our communities by enriching the lives of others around them.

National Volunteer Week, April 23 to 29, is a time to recognize volunteers for their tireless dedication. It is also the time for all of us to recognize the extreme importance of volunteerism.

In Haliburton-Victoria-Brock, volunteers purchase vital equipment for hospitals, help fund college campus expansions, raise money for medical research, run fall fairs and community events, provide services to seniors, deliver programs for area children and youth, fundraise for their neighbour with cancer, and so much, much more. Can you imagine what we would lose without the dedication and hard work of volunteers?

According to Statistics Canada, volunteering is a resource that exceeds, by far, the value of donations from households to the non-profit sector. In 2000, non-profit organizations paid $56.4 billion in compensation of employees and received the equivalent of $14.0 billion in estimated volunteer work — nearly one-fifth of the total value of labour resources employed. Volunteers help create a strong sense of community. The social aspect of volunteering fosters ongoing friendships and a sense of self gratitude.

Currently, over 2 million Ontarians dedicate their time to 45,000 charitable and non-profit agencies and it is an honour to commend them. It is so beneficial for all ages to engage in volunteer activities. Volunteer opportunities provide all ages with the unique opportunity to explore their interests. It’s never too late, or early, to become involved. Throughout my entire life, I have been a volunteer, and can attest to the great amount of gratification that helping others can give a person. I still try and volunteer in my community as much as possible. If you have the time to give a few hours back to your community, I encourage you to do so. There is nothing more rewarding.

I would like to take this time to thank all those volunteers who dedicate their precious time year after year. You enrich and strengthen our communities from which we all benefit. We thank you during this national volunteer week, and every day of the year.