Volunteering: Let’s Celebrate National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week takes place from April 23 – 29 and the theme this year is Volunteers Grow Community. The week was originally proclaimed in 1943 in Vancouver, Montreal, Winnipeg and Toronto. The Women's Voluntary Services organized events to educate the public on the important contributions that women were making to the war effort, while at home.

In the late 1960s the idea to have a special week was revived and the focus shifted to all volunteers in the community.

The week is a special time which is set aside to honour the people who donate their time and energy to others in the community. It also serves to raise awareness of the important contribution that volunteers make to our communities and to the identity and values of our country.

If you are a volunteer, give yourself a “pat on the back” for helping others without expecting anything back in return. If you know a volunteer, make sure that you thank him/her for the contributions that he/she is making to the community.

For those contemplating becoming a volunteer, there are many benefits to be found.

Benefits of Volunteer Work

Great for helping students get work experience in a future career field
A proven way to bridge the gap between school and work
Will be able to access recommendations from a person in your field
Make new contacts
An important addition to your resume
Feeling more connected to people from all walks of life

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