National Volunteer Week was celebreated in Canada during April 7 to 13. This year’s theme was: “Celebrate the Value of Volunteering”. Volunteer Week is a time to recognize, celebrate, and say “thank you” to Canada’s estimated 12.7 million volunteers.
Volunteering is often seen to be a selfless act: one gives one’s time, skills, experience, and passion to help others, without ever expecting anything in return. While volunteering is a form of service in its purest form, many volunteers say: “We receive so much more than we give”. From opportunities to develop new skills, to finding deep and meaningful personal relationships and connections, the magic of volunteering is simply that it creates social and economic value for all.
The Town of Assiniboia sponsored and hosted a special Awards Night at the Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreation Centre on April 18, recognizing several individuals who demonstrate outstanding service toward the community. The town also partnered with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, once known as the Five Hills Health Region, to host this gala evening and event. Three dedicated volunteers were recognized and presented with Rural, Urban, and Youth Volunteer Recognition Awards. More than 200 people attended the event to show their gratitude and appreciation. Recipients of the awards were selected on the basis of their outstanding volunteer contributions benefiting the community, and for their dedicated commitment to community development and volunteerism - either personally or as part of a service club.
Shirley Punga, who is from Assiniboia, but recently moved to Moose Jaw, was given the Urban Volunteer Recognition award for 2018. Punga was recognized primarily for her work with the 55 Club, and the Ladies Auxiliary for Long Term Care.
Gail Delorme received the Rural Volunteer Recognition award for her work as organizer of the annual Terry Fox Run in the region, as well as her work organizing the ‘Better Together’ food drive which takes place every year at Halloween. Delorme was also honoured for her tireless work in numerous ’ministries’ within St. George’s Catholic Church.
Last, but certainly not least, was the Youth Volunteer Recognition award given to Logan Fettes, a grade 12 student at ACHS. Fettes was recognized for his volunteer work as a youth baseball coach with 5 and 6 year olds and his work as a Bantam Basketball assistant coach. Planning to attend the U of R this fall, he is also a guest instructor, referee, and program volunteer for numerous other sports.
Kerri Martin, Executive Assistant and Marketing Coordinator, helped plan the Awards night for the Town of Assiniboia and summed up the evening, “Assiniboia is so fortunate to have so many (capable) volunteers contributing so much to this wonderful community.”
