Recently I was asked to write an article on volunteers. So folks, this is what I came up with and they are my opinions.
From the dictionary: voluntary (adjective) - having done by free will; done without payment; supported by free will contributions, spontaneous.
(Noun) - organ solo in church service.
Volunteer (noun) one who offers service joins force, etc., of her/his own free will. (Verb) offer oneself or one's service.
Governments, local, provincial and federal, rub their hands together in glee to see all those that volunteer because then they don't have to spend government monies. Government monies, after all, are our money. We pay taxes that the government uses to spend money on us for things they tell us they GIVE us. So we are really helping ourselves, when you stop to think about it. Become a volunteer.
Personal thoughts - years ago a group of citizens gathered together to meet with Williams Lake city council members offering a variety of their services to the community in various areas of need. We were told." Thank-you but No Thanks- as we would run into trouble with the union."
My mother told me I should always offer my services as a volunteer. Share my abilities, to help others. Her reasoning was, I'd never have enough money to make a difference, but for as long as I lived, I should share what I had with others. The Golden Rule raised me - Do onto others as you'd have them do unto you.
Volunteers are needed in all areas from birth to death.
Locally a few are: firemen, visitors/helpers at Forest View, hospice and palliative care, literacy program, reading program, Hospital Auxiliary, Guides, Brownies, Scouts and Cubs, church organizations, seniors organizations, Legion, Elks, Royal Purple, Lions, Rotary, Challenger's program, children's programs (sports, etc.), Blackpool Hall Committee, Food Bank, and many more (and that is just locally).
These all take time and are all good causes. Each one has a different agenda and each has a goal. The common bond is they are all there to help our community. One person alone cannot do it all. Together we can.
Did you know 'volunteer' is an excellent recommendation on your resume? Employers look at this and appreciate that this person is dedicated and a hard worker.
– Submitted by Lady Jean Gross