Richard Froese
Volunteers and seniors have long been the foundation of local communities.
Seniors have a deep history of being strong and committed volunteers.
Both have special weeks designated to honour them.
Communities celebrated National Volunteer Week from April 27 – May 3 and the golden-agers will be in the spotlight during Alberta Seniors’ Week from June 2-8.
Volunteers serve vital roles in any and every community. Throughout the year, volunteers do so much to help support people and their communities as individuals or as part of a variety of countless organizations. From young children to seniors, volunteers show their heart, care and love to all they reach in so many ways.
By definition, a volunteer is a person who freely offers to undertake a task.
It comes from the heart to do something.
After all, it’s better to volunteer than to be voluntold by someone else.
Volunteers can serve on their own or for a group such as community clubs and organizations, schools, sports and recreation, churches, health services, youth and seniors’ programs and more.
Community events also rely on volunteers to function effectively.
Organizers are working hard to recruit volunteers to make sure the events can function without people having to work extended hours and add stress.
Remember, many hands make light work.
It starts by contacting a local organization.
Volunteers also help raise funds for special projects to enhance their community.
Otherwise, if communities want those projects, municipalities will have to come up with the money and perhaps raise taxes.
Being a volunteer has so many benefits to life.
Thank a volunteer – be a volunteer.
For many seniors, volunteering has just been a way of life since they were young. Many grew up in times of economic depression and war and people gave from the heart to help their families and neighbours and others in time of need or simply lend a helping hand.
If people want something to benefit or support their community and neighbours, they did and do their best to help others.
Countless seniors up in their 80s and 90s remain active and continue to serve their communities and organizations. They are mentors and leaders for younger generations to look up to and follow.
Seniors deserve endless thanks from citizens for their determination and perseverance by serving from the bottom of their hearts.
Thank seniors for all they have done and do to make community life enjoyable for all.
After decades of working, many people think of retirement as the easy life, laid back, relaxing.
But talk to dedicated seniors and many say life is busier than it was in their working and younger years and raising a family.
Enjoy life as a volunteer and a senior.