One of the common challenges for many local organizations and community groups is the lack of volunteers. Sadly, as volunteer recruitment gets harder and harder, usually the outcome is negative for the organization — with some having to officially close their books and end their services.
Volunteers are the roots of strong communities. Without many dedicated and passionate volunteers, our community would not benefit from the services and programs offered by local organizations.
Perhaps in the rush of our busy lives, some might forget that there are benefits to being a volunteer and giving time to a community organization.
I have always felt it was important to volunteer, making time for a couple of community organizations, balancing my commitment with my own busy work schedule, covering many community events through the day, and some during evenings and weekends.
In addition to the volunteering commitments, and my work commitments, I also balance my quality time with my son (as a single parent). In a way, I am able to showcase the power of a volunteer to my child, since he is a witness to the passion and dedication I share with the community groups.
It is important to try new things, and spend some time with different community groups to see what is the right fit with you. I am honoured to be involved with two groups: Crocus 80 Theatre and the Weyburn and District United Way.
I have learned a lot about myself as a person through my involvement with both of these community organizations. I have grown stronger as a person, and truly have learned that through team dynamics and listening to ideas — a small group can accomplish many great things.
As a volunteer, I have felt the pride of seeing a project come to completion, after being part of a team who had worked very hard and diligently on all the plans and ideas for that project.
Volunteering is truly a way to support the services and programs that keep our communities alive. It is through volunteers that we have interesting events and programs that are offered to the whole community.
Sometimes all it takes is an hour. One hour to share your passion. One hour of your time to help a community group with their upcoming event.
There are so many great local organizations here in Weyburn that support the community, and I know that any of them would welcome new members.
I have also seen the unfortunate result when a local group is not able to recruit new members — since there have been a couple of organizations that had to make the decision to close their books.
If we want our community projects to continue to be successful, we have to find ways to support them and the best way to do that is through volunteering.
It is also important to pass on the idea of volunteering to the next generation. Our youth can learn so much about their community by volunteering a little bit of their time. It is always amazing to me when I see young dedicated volunteers sharing their ideas.
