The Heart of a Volunteer

April 23 - 29 is National Volunteer Week,
A Time to Recognize the Contributions of Our Many Exceptional Volunteers

April 24, 2006 - Times and interests may change but it remains that there is nothing as enduring as the heart of a volunteer. This strength of heart has always been a vital part of the programs and services of the Park Board.

The very word volunteer denotes dedication- service without remuneration perhaps, but not without reward. Anyone who has ever extended their precious free-time hours to a community recreation facility or activity is well aware that the payback is not only of great value but of great importance to our community's connectedness.

Today, more than 6,000 people volunteer in our city's parks and recreation system, supporting programs and services that would not be possible without them. Each year new programs appear, keeping pace with the growth and changes in our city, supporting the health and well-being of our residents and helping our city remain liveable and beautiful. Many of these programs are created because of the vision and support of our exceptional volunteers.

Our volunteers represent all ages, backgrounds and interests; some are First Nations, others are brand new to Canada. They all bring a passion for their work and a wealth of knowledge and experience: the youth who is a community leader, youth advocate and mentor for young immigrants; the senior citizen who faithfully watches and reports on the herons nesting in the rookery at Stanley Park; the former drug addict who now gives back to the community by helping those with drug problems; the long-serving community association board member who raises money to rebuild a community centre; the intrepid pancake flipper who serves hundreds of families at Breakfast with Santa; the student who helps make it possible for those with disabilities to use our pools; the sport coaches who arrive early before the parents and children to sweep the fields for rocks, glass and other debris; young people helping young people do homework; strong backs and nimble hands that pull out invasive ivy and reintroduce native species into our parks. And the list goes on.

For all their generosity of time and knowledge, for all their selfless contributions, we are very grateful.

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