We’re delving into a unique element of volunteering on our blog each day during National Volunteer Week. From reflections on wellness to explorations of new trends, check back each day for a different take on how volunteering continues to make the world go round. Today’s Part 5 wraps up the series. Click to read Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4.
Now, I’d love to give the floor to just a few of these folks who wish to thank all the fantastic volunteers out there in our city as well.
"Community engagement, or more commonly known as, volunteering, is often seen as a noble act. People donate their time, skills, abilities, and their passion in hopes that it will help others without expecting anything in return. Volunteers seek to make a positive impact within their society by finding meaningful opportunities where they can participate and assist with shaping their communities through the work they deliver. We want to sincerely thank each and every one of our volunteers for their time, commitment, support and their presence. We recognize that “thank you” is not enough to express our gratitude and appreciation for the work our volunteers provide. However, please know that you are an enormous value to our organization and the patients you serve each day."
Aura Amador Vasquez, Volunteer Resources at the Royal Alexandra Hospital – Alberta Health Services.
"We know we say it a lot, but gosh do we ever mean it. Fringe Theatre would not be what it is and do what it does without our volunteers. Our 1,200+ volunteers give thousands of hours of their time each year to support the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival and other activities at the ATB Financial Arts Barns. Our volunteers are the beating heart of our organization, and the reason why we remain North America’s largest, longest running Fringe Theatre Festival. Though this year’s Festival can’t go on, we know our volunteers will be there, ready to help us get back on our feet and enthusiastically serve our fringe community. Thank you Fringe volunteers!"
Drew Delbaere, Fringe Theatre Adventure
“On behalf of the University Hospital Foundation staff, and the patients whose lives are changed and saved at the University of Alberta Hospital site every day – thank you to all the volunteers who have played a part!”
Joelle Weisbeck, University Hospital Foundation
"For National Volunteer Week, we want to thank you for everything you do and have done; for your love, positive energy, dedication and genuine contributions. We couldn’t do our work without you. Today, we are grateful and want to celebrate you! We miss you and can’t wait to see you soon!"
Tatiana Duque, iHuman Youth Society
"Volunteering with EALT makes a huge difference for us. As a small non-profit, we rely on volunteers to achieve our stewardship, outreach, and overall conservation goals. From 2015-2019, we had over 2,000 volunteer hours per year, contributed by 150-350 volunteers per year. This time is equivalent to the work of a full time staff member! EALT currently has 4 full time staff, so volunteers contribute to 1/5th or more of the work done by our organization. For this hard work and dedication, we say a grateful thank you to our volunteers of all ages and abilities! Whether you volunteered for us in person or online, often, or just once, you have made a difference to us. We welcome you back to volunteer with us in the future, and we look forward to seeing you again."
Meghan Jacklin, Edmonton and Area Land Trust
"Alberta Cancer Foundation is proudly sharing some of our amazing volunteers throughout National Volunteer Week. During this difficult time we feel it is important to acknowledge all of the good people do for Albertans facing cancer. This is a time to celebrate all of the positive impact we have in our world! This group of volunteers were the perfect ambassadors selling 50/50 tickets to the patrons of an Edmonton Oilers Game in support of Alberta Cancer Foundation. Join us in thanking them for their energetic spirit!"
Paula Bildfell, Alberta Cancer Foundation
“On behalf of Catholic Social Services staff and clients, we would like to send a heartfelt thank you to our exceptional volunteers who share their time and bring hope to the vulnerable Albertans we serve. Your passion and dedication has helped lift up people and families in our communities throughout the province - we couldn’t do what we do without YOU! We truly value your care and commitment and we look forward to the time when we can continue our work together. Until then, stay safe and well, and know that we are tremendously grateful for all that you do!”
Catholic Social Services Volunteer Services
At Westend Seniors Activity Centre, we could not do what we do without our volunteers. They are the backbone of our organization and ensure the success of our kitchen program, front desk reception, recreational activities, many events and travel trips and the operation of the centre as a whole. They have given countless hours and continue to do so during this unprecedented time. We cannot thank our volunteers enough for their enthusiasm, creativity, diligence, compassion, commitment and generosity. Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much!
Heather Riberdy, Westend Seniors Activity Centre