Orleans Weekly Journal
Published: Friday, August 8, 2008 A few hours goes a long way In recent columns I’ve profiled local folks who are not only building careers or businesses but giving back to the community as well. While the spirit of volunteerism is alive and well across our city, it is particularly evident in the east end and specifically in Orléans. To get a sense of how widespread community ownership and contribution is in our own backyard, a good reference source is the program guide from a volunteer appreciation evening hosted by MP Royal Galipeau back at the end of April at the local Legion. On that night over 100 local volunteers were honoured with commemorative certificates for their service across a variety of sectors. And the range of volunteerism in our community is astounding. In the arts and culture sector, some of our neighbours have started a female barbershop quartet while others ensure that a local dance troupe raises funds for a host of local charities. Still others volunteer their time in preparing grant applications to producing and posting biographies of local artists to help promote their work. Our local houses of worship are also a source of that giving spirit. From maintaining church grounds to organizing day care to fundraising events, there’s much more happening than just praise and worship. Of course, our rich community associations are the epitome of volunteerism. Neighbourhood newsletters, local cleanups, holiday fairs and welcoming new Canadians are all done by volunteers. And the April evening didn’t forget about the litany of coaches, conveners, trainers and back office folks that keep local soccer, hockey, basketball, (you name the sport) leagues functioning. Others prefer to be much more directly involved in the development and education of their children and combine their desire to serve in the realm of school councils from minute taking to fundraising drives. Service clubs like Kiwanis, Rotary and Richelieu are also a backbone of strength of which we can be proud. From cleaning up playgrounds to parking cars at Petrie on Canada Day, these groups serve us is many ways. Still others work within the scouting movement, our seniors’ residences, or community resource centres by donating time, materials or their talents through companionship and mentorship. But our community can be enriched even further and we should not rest on our laurels. So this humble scribe has an ask of you, before the end of August, find a local organization and drop them an e-mail or give them a call and tell them you have three hours, three tiny hours of time, to give. Ask them what they need done or where your special talents (computers, carpentry, automotive, newsletter layout, physical labour, fundraising … whatever) can be put to use. They’ll be happy you did. You’ll be better for the effort. And our community will become stronger and more connected in the process. = = = = = Comments can be sent to Walter Robinson at orleansouttakes@transcontinental.ca. |