Volunteers don’t just support communities, they build them

Exeter Examiner Editor - Dan Rolph

By Dan Rolph

A sense of community is such an important and often underappreciated thing.

It connects us to the people who share the same home that we do, and it gives us a feeling of belonging.

But that sense of community isn’t something that appears out of thin air.

It is built, and its builders are the individuals who find time in their busy lives to make their homes better places while expecting nothing in return.

It is built by coaches who help mold teams of young athletes into not only greater players, but greater human beings.

It is built by organized planners who tackle the impossible task of pulling together events and fundraisers that will support those less fortunate than them.

It is built by heroes who sign up to be the ones who receive a call when a young child goes missing.

And it is built by generous neighbours who share a piece of their hearts with those around them to make their community a more inclusive and welcoming place.

I think everyone reading those words will naturally have at least one person come to mind. Someone who has made a difference in their own life, or the lives of those they know and love.

National Volunteer Week in Canada is from April 19 to 25 this year, making it a time to recognize the many people who contribute to their communities.

But with this year’s theme being “Ignite Volunteerism,” it is also a time to light a spark in others who may have yet to take that leap, stepping into the work of volunteering in the community.

Volunteering can take on countless forms, and in a community like ours, there’s a fit for just about anyone.

For some it may be getting involved with one of the minor sports associations. For others, it may be connecting with a group like the Lions Club or the Optimist Club. Some may want to make a difference in a child’s life as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters, or maybe they’d be interested in becoming a familiar face at Exeter Villa.

And sometimes, volunteering is as simple as checking on a neighbour who could use a helping hand.

The point isn’t that everyone needs to do everything. It’s that this community is greater if everyone can do something.

If you’ve ever thought about getting involved but weren’t sure where to start, National Volunteer Week is a good time to ask that question.

Reach out to a group you already care about. What they often need most isn’t expertise. It’s kindness and a willingness to show up.

For those who already volunteer, this week is a reminder to keep inviting others in. To share the load, to mentor new helpers and to make room at the table. When volunteerism catches fire, it doesn’t just strengthen programs and events.

It turns “where we live” into “where we belong.”

In a world where news feeds are filled with stories that evoke fear and unease, I think it’s as important as ever to find solace and comfort in our communities, and to remember those who make them as incredible as they are.

In the words of the unendingly wise Fred Rogers, as he quoted his own mother, “Always look for the helpers. There will always be helpers.”

It’s the helpers who make this community so special.