International Volunteer Day – Dec. 5
Happy 35th Annual International Volunteer Day!
December 5th marks the 35th Annual International Volunteer Day. The Volunteer Centre of St. Lawrence-Rideau celebrates the work of all volunteers in our community – whether 40 hours a week, or 4 hours a month.
To mark the 35th Annual International Volunteer Day, we have set a goal of attracting 35 new volunteers to register with us in the month of December. Make it an early resolution before New Year’s!
Thinking about Volunteering? Here are a few burning questions you may be asking yourself:
Firstly, why volunteer? Volunteers are ordinary people doing extraordinary things! Being part of something big or small is meaningful, and let’s face it, it feels amazing! Volunteering is good for our health and statistics back this up. Volunteering more in our community keeps us connected – it’s tough to be lonely when we’re helping others!
We also get to increase our sense of purpose when we share our talents and keep our skills sharp. Why not ask a friend that volunteers to share their experiences with you?
Who can volunteer? Anyone! Children may volunteer with their parents, and anyone ages 15 and up, living in one of the our area communities: Athens, Brockville, Cardinal, Elgin, Gananoque, Kemptville, Merrickville, North Grenville, North Leeds, Portland, Prescott, South Grenville, South Leeds, Spencerville, and Westport.
What kinds of volunteer opportunities are available? Whether you are more interested in opportunities to connect with others, or to work with your hands, there are a wide variety of different postings on our Volunteer Centre website.
When are volunteers needed? Volunteers are needed for all kinds of reasons during all the different seasons of the year. All of our member agencies are not-for-profits that appreciate having more hands on deck to help offer more programs and services that benefit our community.
Where do I go to find out more information to volunteer? Simply call the Volunteer Centre at (613) 498-2111 x 374 or email us at info@volunteercentre.ca. Our dedicated team will work with you to find the right fit for your talents and interests.
Did you know:
International Volunteer Day (IVD) was formally adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in December 1985. Since then, IVD takes place annually to shine light on the impact of volunteer efforts everywhere. Volunteers are leading social change around the world. This special day promotes the work of volunteers at all levels, including local, national and international. For more information, please visit the United Nations Volunteers website.
In our community, there are men and women, young and old, from all walks of life making a difference each day. To all of you that give freely of your time and of yourselves, we want to say thank you, thank you, thank you for all you do. So many different community programs and services would not be possible without our volunteers. You are truly our unsung heroes.