Whether you’re watching your kid lug the puck up the ice at a hockey practice, or attending one of the many local festivals, you need to thank a volunteer.
But instead of just giving them a round of applause, or a pat on the back, give’em a hand … literally.
Volunteer Appreciation Night was hosted by the Town of Westlock and Family and Community Support Services April 20 at the Rotary Spirit Centre. And while the night was geared towards honouring FCSS and volunteers in town, it’s important to recognize all of the area’s volunteers.
There’s no way we can thank everyone who gave of their time to make the community a better place — from volunteer firefighters, to the folks who keep the Elks Bingo running, to last year’s 100th anniversary committee.
Those are but a few of the examples and there are countless more. Pick a local group and its very existence is owed to the tireless work of volunteers.
But there’s a possible crisis looming and that’s where you come in.
As a newspaper we get the chance to attend a wide variety of events and talk to many of the people who run the local clubs. Sadly, more often that not, it’s a relatively small, dedicated core doing the majority of the heavy lifting.
And, in many cases, that core are getting older and not being replaced by younger folks.
The ‘why’ doesn’t matter, it’s just a reality.
A story on Page 19 of the week’s Westlock News says the figure skating club may fold unless new board members and a qualified coach are found.
So, give’em a hand — the opportunities are as varied as the people who give of their time.
Like sports? There’s a wide range of clubs and associations where your expertise will be put to good use. Of course that’s only one avenue.
The art club, Legion, Elks, Soul Sisters, 100 Women Who Care … there are so many clubs and organizations doing great work in all corners of our community.
And your age doesn’t matter either. Rotary has its youth Interact group which has been doing tremendous work in town and around the world.
Volunteering is way to give back to the community we all call home. So please, give’em a hand … the people you’re helping are your friends and family.
