Volunteers continue to strengthen St. Marys, Perth South and communities across Perth County

By Galen Simmons

Volunteers play a vital role in sustaining the programs, services and community spirit that define St. Marys, Perth South and communities across Perth County.

From local service clubs and recreation programs to arts, culture and social supports, countless amenities residents rely on are made possible through the dedication of volunteers who give their time and energy to help others.

As part of National Volunteer Week, running April 19-25 across Canada, the St. Marys Independent and other Grant Haven Media newspapers are highlighting the importance of volunteerism and the people who make a difference in their communities. This year’s theme, Ignite Volunteerism, encourages residents to reflect on the value volunteers bring to daily life and consider how communities can inspire more people to get involved.

Local political leaders say volunteers are essential to maintaining the strong sense of connection that defines rural communities. Several of them shared their thoughts on the importance of volunteers to our communities. Here’s what they had to say.

St. Marys Mayor Al Strathdee

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community. We are very grateful for their commitment to making St. Marys the special place that it is. Their selfless acts mean that the quality of life in our community is improved for so many people.”

Perth South Mayor Sue Orr

“Volunteers are the heartbeat of the Township of Perth South, quietly shaping the strength and spirit of its communities. Across the township, dedicated residents give their time to ensure local spaces and programs continue to thrive.

“In Kirkton-Woodham, a committed group of volunteers keeps the Community Centre – truly the hub of the community – active and well-used. In addition, the pool committee brings families together through events like Family Fun Day and ongoing fundraising efforts that enhance the pool experience. Other groups in Kirkton-Woodham such as the Horticultural Society, Optimist Club and Agricultural Society, also contribute countless hours of volunteer time toward community betterment.

“In Sebringville, the athletic association organizes lively bingo nights and maintains a strong schedule of ball tournaments, creating opportunities for connection and recreation. Meanwhile, the Downie Optimist Club, celebrating 50 years this year, remains focused on youth, delivering meaningful activities for the next generation.

“In St. Paul’s, volunteers sustain a vibrant soccer program that keeps young people active and engaged.

“Perth South remains committed to supporting these initiatives – but it is volunteers who are truly the glue that holds the community together.”

Perth County Warden Dean Trentowsky

“How can we as a community encourage more people to step up and give back? The short answer is by storytelling. Specifically, the telling of the ‘good news’ stories of others who have volunteered in the past, and by telling the ‘good news’ stories about those who have been the beneficiaries of volunteer actions.

“The act of storytelling helps to reveal the shared experience of how volunteer efforts can have such a tremendously positive and energetic impact in our daily lives. People are social by nature and are driven by a wide range of emotions. By telling and sharing the ‘good news’ stories that arise from volunteer work, this can be the encouragement that stirs enough emotions which ignites an ‘ah-ha!’ moment within the readers of such stories.

“This combined thoughts-and-feelings process would, in turn, motivate and inspire the readers of these stories to step up and contribute as a volunteer within their neighbourhood and community.

“Volunteers and volunteer organizations are so crucial because they fill a local need or a void that simply cannot be fulfilled otherwise through a larger, centralized government or some similar corporately structured organization. Volunteers and volunteer organizations provide a personal touch and a personal connection in ways that cannot always be found via the typically transactional forms of various government or corporate driven services.

“Volunteers don’t carry judgements or an expectation of some sort of return back to them. Instead, they serve with gratitude and with a selfless desire to serve for the benefit of others in their community.”

Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae

“Volunteers make our communities stronger every day. Their time and dedication keep local organizations running and support the people who need it most. During National Volunteer Week, I encourage everyone to thank a volunteer and consider getting involved in your community.”

Perth-Wellington MP John Nater

“Happy National Volunteer Week!

“We are truly fortunate to have so many wonderful volunteers making our communities stronger here in Perth-Wellington.

“Volunteers are everywhere. Whether they are organizing fundraising and community events; advocating for resources to assist those experiencing poverty or homelessness; supporting arts and culture; upholding our faith communities; or coaching our children, the programs, activities and celebrations we value would not be possible without the countless contributions of volunteers.

“To each of them I offer a simple but heartfelt message: thank you. Your generosity and commitment have not gone unnoticed.

“This year’s National Volunteer Week theme, ‘Ignite Volunteerism,’ is particularly meaningful. As challenges grow and times become more difficult, the selfless work of volunteers is more important than ever. Even small acts of kindness can spark something powerful and help build communities that are warm, inclusive and resilient.”

Throughout National Volunteer Week, we at Grant Haven Media invite our readers to continue reading and sharing the stories of the people and organizations whose contributions help make our local communities stronger.