23.10.2023 Views

Volunteer Matters, Vol I Ed I, 2023

Celebrating Volunteers in the Capital Regional District • Benefits of Volunteering Don Monsour: Volunteer Champion! • 7 Ways Parents Can Inspire Volunteerism in Teens • What Would Happen if There Were NO Volunteers • Volunteer Opportunities You May Not Have Thought Of

Celebrating Volunteers in the Capital Regional District • Benefits of Volunteering
Don Monsour: Volunteer Champion! • 7 Ways Parents Can Inspire Volunteerism in Teens • What Would Happen if There Were NO Volunteers • Volunteer Opportunities You May Not Have Thought Of

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

Celebrating <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>s in the Capital Regional District<br />

<strong>Vol</strong> I <strong>Ed</strong> I <strong>2023</strong><br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong><br />

MATTERS<br />

How Parents Can Inspire<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>ism in Teens<br />

What Would Happen If<br />

There Were No <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>s?<br />

Profile of<br />

Don Monsour<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Champion


<strong>2023</strong><br />

MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV<br />

GOING EV<br />

JUST GOT EASIER<br />

✓<br />

✓<br />

✓<br />

687KM* TOTAL RANGE<br />

7 PASSENGERS<br />

PANORAMIC SUNROOF<br />

TEST<br />

DRIVE<br />

TODAY<br />

AT<br />

3342 OAK STREET,<br />

VICTORIA, BC, V8X 1R1<br />

250-220-8100<br />

VICTORIAMITSUBISHI.CA<br />

VICTORIA<br />

MITSUBISHI<br />

* Model shown has an estimated range of 687km and is calculated via peak performance of the electric motor(s) at peak battery power. Actual range varies with conditions<br />

such as external environment, vehicle use, driving behaviours, vehicle maintenance and lithium-ion battery age and state of health.


<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 3


<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong><br />

MATTERS<br />

5<br />

Don Monsour<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Champion!<br />

18<br />

What Would Happen<br />

if There Were NO<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>s<br />

30<br />

Benefits of<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>ing<br />

12<br />

7 Ways Parents<br />

Can Inspire<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>ism in Teens<br />

23<br />

<strong>Vol</strong> I <strong>Ed</strong> I <strong>2023</strong><br />

Celebrating<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>s in the<br />

Capital Regional District<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Opportunities<br />

You May Not Have<br />

Thought Of<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Organizations<br />

Community 6<br />

Health 10<br />

Children & Youth 15<br />

Social Services 16<br />

Animals 20<br />

Corporate 20<br />

Indigenous 20<br />

Newcomers 20<br />

Spiritual 20<br />

Environmental 21<br />

<strong>Ed</strong>ucation 24<br />

Seniors 26<br />

Government 26<br />

Sports & Recreation 27<br />

Arts & Culture 28<br />

Jim Schneider, Publisher/Managing <strong>Ed</strong>itor<br />

publisher@islandparent.ca<br />

Erika Palmer, Contributing <strong>Ed</strong>itor<br />

erika@islandparent.ca<br />

Kristine Wickheim, Account Manager<br />

kristine@islandparent.ca<br />

RaeLeigh Buchanan, Account Manager<br />

raeleigh@islandparent.ca<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> is a semi-annual publication by<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Victoria in partnership with Island Parent<br />

Group Ltd., designed to be a fundraiser and to<br />

promote volunteerism in our community. Views expressed<br />

are not necessarily those of the publisher.<br />

No material herein may be reproduced without the<br />

permission of the publisher. <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> is<br />

distributed free in selected areas.<br />

518 Caselton Place<br />

Victoria BC V8Z 7Y5<br />

250-388-6905<br />

4 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Benefits of <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>ing<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>ing is an incredible experience<br />

that not only helps other<br />

people and communities but<br />

offers many benefits to the volunteers<br />

themselves. By simply giving some time<br />

and energy, you will reap incredible rewards.<br />

Here’s what to expect when you<br />

volunteer.<br />

You Get a Sense of Purpose<br />

& Fulfillment<br />

When you volunteer, you’re not just<br />

giving your time; you’re giving yourself<br />

a sense of purpose, especially if you’re<br />

volunteering with a cause close to your<br />

heart and values. It’s very rewarding to<br />

know that your actions are making a positive<br />

impact in the lives of others. This<br />

tends to result in a deep sense of belonging<br />

and meaning.<br />

You Develop New Skills<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>ing is an incredible opportunity<br />

to grow and learn new skills. The<br />

skills you acquire while you volunteer<br />

can prove invaluable in various aspects<br />

of your life. Trying out new roles and<br />

tasks broadens the skills you already<br />

have; plus helps you learn many new<br />

ones. These often include organization,<br />

communications, leadership, and problem-solving<br />

skills. These skills are invaluable<br />

for both personal development<br />

and potential career paths.<br />

You Create Wonderful<br />

Social Connections<br />

One of the best things about volunteering<br />

is that it connects you with people<br />

who share your passion for making a<br />

difference. These connections often lead<br />

to long-lasting friendships and help you<br />

to develop new network connections.<br />

You’re not just volunteering alongside<br />

others; you’re forming a close-knit community<br />

driven by a common purpose.<br />

You Can Create a Ripple<br />

Effect of Generosity<br />

Your volunteer efforts likely have a<br />

larger impact than you might realize.<br />

Witnessing acts of kindness tend to<br />

inspire others to take action by volunteering<br />

too, creating a ripple effect of<br />

positivity and helpfulness. This sense of<br />

giving has the potential to bring about<br />

positive changes on a wider scale, transforming<br />

both local communities, as well<br />

as the world at large.<br />

Your Mental Well-being<br />

Increases<br />

Acts of kindness and service trigger<br />

the release of endorphins, those natural<br />

‘feel-good’ chemicals in your brain. Plus,<br />

the feeling of community increases your<br />

sense of inclusion. And over time, the<br />

habit of volunteering can take you out of<br />

your comfort zone which also builds your<br />

confidence and lessens anxiety, therefore<br />

fostering stronger mental resilience.<br />

Plus, being exposed to different types of<br />

communities and people from all walks<br />

of life can help to approach opportunities<br />

with resilience and an open mind.<br />

You May Gain Physical<br />

Health Benefits Too<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>ing is not only good for your<br />

mind; it’s good for your body too. Studies<br />

show that volunteers tend to have lower<br />

stress levels and a reduced risk of heart<br />

disease. Plus, many volunteer activities<br />

involve physical movement, even if it’s<br />

simply walking around or handing out<br />

food, and this helps to contribute to better<br />

overall fitness.<br />

You’ll Aid in Community<br />

Building<br />

When you volunteer, you’re contributing<br />

to building a stronger and better<br />

community. By investing your time and<br />

energy, you’re not only improving the<br />

lives of individuals but also enriching the<br />

collective well-being of your community.<br />

You’ll Gain Better<br />

Understanding & Empathy<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>ing puts you in direct contact<br />

with people from all different walks<br />

of life. This exposure to diverse cultures<br />

and different perspectives fosters understanding<br />

and empathy. It helps to debunk<br />

stereotypes and prejudices, which encourages<br />

the growth of a more inclusive<br />

and open society.<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 5


Community<br />

1 Up Victoria Single Parent<br />

Resource Centre<br />

250-385-1114 x3<br />

singleparentvictoria.ca<br />

9–10 Club Serving Soup<br />

to the Hungry Society<br />

778-440-7687<br />

thesoupkitchen.ca<br />

Beacon Community Services<br />

250-658-6407<br />

beaconcs.ca<br />

BeaYOUtiful Foundation<br />

778-918-3059<br />

thebeayoutifulfoundation.com<br />

Burnside Gorge Community<br />

Association<br />

250-388-5251 X223<br />

burnsidegorge.ca<br />

Capital Region Food & Agricultural<br />

Initiatives Roundtable<br />

250-896-7004<br />

crfair.ca<br />

CFB Esquimalt Naval &<br />

Military Museum<br />

250-363-4312<br />

forces.gc.ca<br />

Community Living Victoria<br />

250-477-7231<br />

clvic.ca<br />

Community Options for Children<br />

& Families<br />

250-380-6363<br />

cocf.ca<br />

Community Social Planning Council<br />

250-383-6166<br />

communitycouncil.ca<br />

Cook Street Village Activity Centre<br />

250-384-6542<br />

csvac.ca<br />

Destination Greater Victoria<br />

(Tourism Victoria)<br />

250-953-2022<br />

tourismvictoria.com<br />

Esquimalt Farmers Market<br />

esquimaltmarket.com<br />

Esquimalt Neighbourhood House<br />

250-385-2635<br />

enh.bc.ca<br />

Esquimalt <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Services<br />

250-412-8511<br />

esquimalt.ca<br />

Fairfield Gonzales Community<br />

Association<br />

250-382-4604 x104<br />

fairfieldcommunity.ca<br />

Family Caregivers Society of BC<br />

250-384-0408<br />

familycaregiversbc.ca<br />

Fernwood Neighbourhood<br />

Resource Group<br />

250-381-1552<br />

fernwoodnrg.ca<br />

Friends of Bowker Creek Society<br />

250-370-4365<br />

bowkercreek.org<br />

Global Village Store –<br />

Victoria Global Village Society<br />

250-388-5591<br />

victoriaglobalvillage.ca<br />

Gorge View Society<br />

250-360-1977<br />

gorgeviewsociety.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Citizens’<br />

Counselling Centre<br />

250-384-2934<br />

citizenscounselling.com<br />

Greater Victoria Coalition<br />

to End Homelessness Society<br />

250-370-1512<br />

victoriahomelessness.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Housing Society<br />

250-384-3434<br />

greatervichousing.org<br />

Habitat for Humanity – Victoria<br />

250-480-7688 x115<br />

habitatvictoria.com<br />

Help Fill A Dream Foundation<br />

250-382-3135<br />

helpfilladream.com<br />

InnovativeCommunities.Org<br />

Foundation<br />

250-896-3236<br />

innovativecommunities.org<br />

Inter-Cultural Association<br />

250-388-4728<br />

icavictoria.org<br />

James Bay Community Project<br />

250-388-7844<br />

jbcp.bc.ca<br />

James Bay Community School Society<br />

250-389-1470<br />

sd61.bc.ca<br />

6 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


James Bay Market Society<br />

250-381-5323<br />

jamesbaymarket.com<br />

James Bay New Horizons Society<br />

250-386-3035<br />

jamesbaynewhorizons.ca<br />

John Howard Society of Victoria<br />

250-386-3428<br />

jhsvic.ca<br />

Learning Through Loss<br />

250-413-3114<br />

learningthroughloss.org<br />

Lifetime Networks Victoria<br />

250-477-4112<br />

lifetimenetworks.org<br />

MADD Canada – Victoria Chapter<br />

1-877-676-6233<br />

madd.ca<br />

Mental Health Society<br />

of Greater Victoria<br />

250-363-9429<br />

mhsvictoria.org<br />

Mercy Ships Canada<br />

250-381-2160<br />

mercyships.ca<br />

Monterey Recreation Centre<br />

250-370-7300<br />

oakbay.ca<br />

Mustard Seed Street Church<br />

250-220-6991<br />

mustardseed.ca<br />

NEED2<br />

250-386-6328<br />

youthspace.ca<br />

Oak Bay <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Services<br />

250-595-1034<br />

oakbayvolunteers.org<br />

Oaklands Community Association<br />

& Centre<br />

250-370-9101<br />

oaklandsca.com<br />

Open Space Arts Society<br />

250-383-8833<br />

openspace.ca<br />

Our Place<br />

250-388-7112<br />

ourplacesociety.com<br />

Pacific Centre Family Services<br />

Association<br />

1-866-478-8357<br />

pcfsa.org<br />

Pacifica Housing Advisory Association<br />

250-385-2131 x2212<br />

pacificahousing.ca<br />

Phoenix Human Services Assoc.<br />

(Thrive Social Services Soc.)<br />

250-995-5510<br />

thrivevictoria.org<br />

Power to Be Adventure Therapy<br />

Society<br />

250-385-2363<br />

powertobe.ca<br />

Quadra Village Community Centre<br />

250-388-7696 x225<br />

quadravillagecc.com<br />

WHAT COULD YOU SHARE?<br />

Share your spark with a child or youth as a volunteer mentor!<br />

Demand for our services is higher than ever and local young<br />

people are reaching out for the support of our mentors.<br />

Apply online and help make a BIG difference in a child’s life!<br />

Opportunities for<br />

teens and adults!<br />

Get matched with a young person to mentor<br />

Access training, support and activity ideas<br />

Spend time together at school or in the community<br />

Feel good about making a difference in a child’s life<br />

Have fun and gain volunteer experience with youth<br />

Learn more and apply online: Victoria.BigBrothersBigSisters.ca<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 7


Rainbow Health Cooperative<br />

1-888-241-9992<br />

rainbowhealth.coop<br />

Red Cedar Cafe Association<br />

778-817-0395<br />

redcedarcafe.ca<br />

Royal Jubilee Hospital Auxiliary<br />

250-217-0600<br />

rjhaux.ca<br />

Saanich Neighbourhood Place<br />

250-360-1148<br />

snplace.org<br />

Saanich <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Services<br />

250-595-8008<br />

saanichvolunteers.org<br />

Salvation Army –<br />

Public Relations Office<br />

250-386-6304<br />

salvationarmy.ca<br />

Search & Rescue Society of BC<br />

250-383-6849<br />

sarbc.org<br />

Sendial<br />

250-544-1234<br />

thriftyfoods.com<br />

Seniors Serving Seniors<br />

Association of BC<br />

250-413-3211<br />

sssbc.org<br />

Shekinah Homes Society<br />

250-595-1014<br />

shekinahhomes.org<br />

Shelbourne Community Kitchen<br />

Society<br />

250-590-0980<br />

shelbournecommunitykitchen.ca<br />

Soap for Hope Canada<br />

250-590-1462<br />

soapforhopecanada.ca<br />

Society of St. Vincent De Paul<br />

250-727-0007<br />

ssvpvancouverisland.ca<br />

Sooke Family Resource Society<br />

250-642-5152<br />

sfrs.ca<br />

Sooke Shelter Society<br />

250-858-7700<br />

sookeshelter.org<br />

Southern Gulf Islands<br />

Community Resources Centre<br />

250-629-3665<br />

sgicommunityresources.ca<br />

The Cridge Centre for the Family<br />

250-995-6404<br />

cridge.org<br />

Threshold Housing Society<br />

250-383-8830<br />

thresholdhousing.ca<br />

Together Against Poverty Society<br />

250-361-3521<br />

tapsbc.ca<br />

Vancouver Island Strata Owners<br />

Association<br />

250-920-0688<br />

visoa.bc.ca<br />

We provide education<br />

and support to condo, townhouse and other<br />

strata owners across BC. Visit our website to<br />

learn about equitable and inclusive in person<br />

and virtual volunteer positions. Experience<br />

with stratas not required.<br />

Victoria Chapter of Canadian Women<br />

for Women in Afghanistan<br />

250-391-3908<br />

cw4wafghan.ca<br />

Victoria Community Resources<br />

Society – Twin Oaks<br />

250-658-4931<br />

vcrs.ca<br />

Victoria Cool Aid Society<br />

250-595-8619<br />

coolaid.org<br />

Victoria Disability Resource Centre<br />

250-595-0044<br />

drcvictoria.com<br />

Victoria Downtown Residents’<br />

Association<br />

victoriadra.ca<br />

Victoria Dragon Boat Festival Society<br />

604-688-2382<br />

victoriadragonboatfestival.com<br />

8 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Victoria Health Co-operative<br />

778-440-0221<br />

victoriahealthcooperative.com<br />

Victoria Pride Society<br />

888-241-9992<br />

victoriapridesociety.org<br />

The Vancouver Island Strata Owners<br />

Association provides education and<br />

support to condo, townhouse, and<br />

other strata owners across BC<br />

Victoria Rainbow Kitchen Society<br />

250-384-2069<br />

rainbowkitchen.ca<br />

Victoria Therapeutic Riding<br />

Association<br />

778-426-0506<br />

vtra.ca<br />

Victoria West Community Association<br />

250-590-8922<br />

victoriawest.ca<br />

Victoria Women In Need<br />

Community Cooperative<br />

250-480-4006 x204<br />

womeninneed.ca<br />

Victoria Women’s Transition<br />

House Society<br />

250-592-2927 x229<br />

vwth.bc.ca<br />

Wear 2 Start Society<br />

250-472-9327<br />

wear2start.com<br />

West Coast Reach Association<br />

250-882-4339<br />

westcoastreach.org<br />

Sing for Change! West Coast<br />

Reach Association (REACH!)<br />

includes four diverse,<br />

inclusive groups in Greater<br />

Victoria singing songs of<br />

hope and healing for our<br />

planet and its people. All ages, backgrounds<br />

and abilities welcome.<br />

Learn about in person and virtual<br />

volunteer positions at<br />

www.visoa.bc.ca<br />

Experience with stratas not required<br />

volunteerco@visoa.bc.ca<br />

Be a Part of Your Community.<br />

Come <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> with Us!<br />

You’ll have the flexibility to choose<br />

when and how often you volunteer<br />

WITS Programs Foundation<br />

250-386-7625<br />

witsprogram.ca<br />

Worklink Employment Society<br />

250-478-9525<br />

worklink.bc.ca<br />

YMCA-YWCA of Vancouver Island<br />

250-386-7511<br />

vancouverislandy.ca<br />

How You Can Help:<br />

• Companionship through visits,<br />

phone calls and walks<br />

• In-home Support including minor<br />

home repairs, technology support<br />

and gardening<br />

• Drives to medical appointments,<br />

recreation and shopping<br />

• Reassurance Phone Calls<br />

• Income Tax Support<br />

• Office Helpline<br />

250-595-1034 | volunteer@oakbayvolunteers.org<br />

oakbayvolunteers.org<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 9


Health<br />

Aberdeen Hospital<br />

250-370-5626<br />

islandhealth.ca<br />

When you volunteer<br />

with a Long-Term Care<br />

Home resident you impact two lives—<br />

theirs and yours. Make a difference.<br />

Embrace your community. Gorge Road<br />

and The Priory are seeking volunteers:<br />

islandhealth.ca/volunteer-resources<br />

or volunteer@islandhealth.ca.<br />

Alzheimer Society of BC<br />

250-382-2052<br />

alzheimerbc.org<br />

AVI Health & Community<br />

Services Society<br />

250-384-2366<br />

avi.org<br />

BC Association for Living Mindfully<br />

lokhorstgroup.com<br />

Borderline Personality Disorder<br />

Society of BC<br />

bpdbc.ca<br />

Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada<br />

519-642-7755<br />

braintumour.ca<br />

Broadmead Care Society<br />

250-658-0311<br />

broadmeadcare.com<br />

Canadian Blood Services<br />

1-888-236-6283<br />

blood.ca<br />

Canadian Cancer Society<br />

250-592-2662<br />

cancer.ca<br />

Cancer DriveLine Society<br />

778-265-0906<br />

cancerdriveline.ca<br />

Capital Region Food Share Network<br />

236-464-7551<br />

foodsharenetwork.com<br />

Children’s Health Foundation<br />

of Vancouver Island<br />

250-940-4950<br />

islandkidsfirst.com<br />

Diabetes Canada<br />

778-622-4275<br />

diabetes.ca<br />

Heart & Stroke<br />

1-888-473-0333<br />

heartandstroke.ca<br />

Island Community Mental Health<br />

Association<br />

250-389-1211<br />

icmha.ca<br />

Island Kids Cancer Association<br />

ikca.ca<br />

Island Prostate Centre<br />

250-388-0214<br />

islandprostatecentre.com<br />

Island Sexual Health Society<br />

250-592-3479<br />

islandsexualhealth.org<br />

James Bay Care Centre<br />

250-388-6457<br />

reveraliving.com<br />

Kiwanis Pavilion<br />

250-598-2022<br />

obkp.org<br />

Mental Health Society<br />

of Greater Victoria<br />

mhsvictoria.org<br />

Become a <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> at Canada’s<br />

4th largest aviation museum<br />

with over 35 aircraft on display.<br />

The museum is run almost entirely by volunteers who<br />

perform a multitude of tasks including aircraft restoration,<br />

cashier, tour guide, online sales, etc.<br />

To volunteer please contact the museum or simply drop in.<br />

Summer Hours, May 1 to Sept 30:<br />

10am to 4pm, Thurs through Tues<br />

Winter Hours, Oct 1 to Apr 30:<br />

11am to 3pm, Thurs through Tues<br />

1910 Norseman Rd, Sidney | 250-655-3300 | bcam.net<br />

Mercy Ships Canada<br />

250-381-2160<br />

mercyships.ca<br />

Mount St. Mary Hospital<br />

250-480-3100 x3201<br />

mountstmary.ca<br />

NEED2<br />

250-386-6328<br />

youthspace.ca<br />

Oak Bay Lodge, VIHA<br />

250-370-6642<br />

islandhealth.ca<br />

Power to Be Adventure Therapy Society<br />

250-385-2363<br />

powertobe.ca<br />

10 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Rainbow Health Cooperative<br />

1-888-241-9992<br />

rainbowhealth.coop<br />

Royal Jubilee Hospital Auxiliary<br />

250-217-0600<br />

rjhaux.ca<br />

Sooke Region Community<br />

Health Network<br />

778-365-1878<br />

sookeregionchn.org<br />

The First Open Heart Society of BC<br />

250-595-2123<br />

fohs.ca<br />

The Victoria Youth Clinic Society<br />

(Foundry)<br />

250-383-3552<br />

foundryvictoria.ca<br />

Umbrella Society for Addictions<br />

& Mental Health<br />

250-380-0595<br />

umbrellasociety.ca<br />

UVic Institute on Aging<br />

& Lifelong Health<br />

604-940-3580<br />

uvic.ca<br />

Victoria Brain Injury Society<br />

250-598-9339<br />

vbis.ca<br />

Victoria General Hospital Auxiliary<br />

250-294-4078<br />

vgha.ca<br />

Victoria Health Co-operative<br />

778-440-0221<br />

victoriahealthcooperative.com<br />

Victoria Therapeutic Riding<br />

Association<br />

778-426-0506<br />

vtra.ca<br />

YMCA-YWCA of Vancouver Island<br />

250-386-7511<br />

vancouverislandy.ca<br />

Grocery Shopping & Delivery Service<br />

Thank you to our hundreds of dedicated Sendial volunteers,<br />

who take and shop customer orders in our stores!<br />

Interested in joining our volunteer team? Contact Customer Care:<br />

250-544-1234 | 1-866-948-0196 (press 4)<br />

sendial@thriftyfoods.com | thriftyfoods.com/sendial<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 11


Don Monsour<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Champion!<br />

We recently chatted with<br />

84-year-old <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong><br />

Champion Don Monsour, for<br />

a fascinating look back at his volunteer<br />

journey. Find out how he got started,<br />

advice he has for both volunteers and<br />

volunteer managers, and how he has<br />

time to still sit on fifteen boards!<br />

How did you get started in<br />

volunteering?<br />

We fostered girls at our home. We<br />

had four teenage, troubled individuals<br />

who needed a home and tender care.<br />

What is your greatest achievement<br />

in volunteering?<br />

Helping to raise over two million<br />

dollars for numerous non-profit charitable<br />

societies, as well as helping many<br />

people with mental health issues.<br />

Do you have any special memories<br />

while volunteering?<br />

Thats a good question. I have so<br />

many!<br />

When I was volunteering with the<br />

Canadian Tourism Commission, I went<br />

to India to promote tourism in Canada.<br />

At an event I was attending a local<br />

Indian dance competition, and I was<br />

invited on stage to present the winners<br />

a trophy. As a way of thanking me<br />

they placed a flower garland around<br />

my neck and took me on a tour of their<br />

village. I was followed all afternoon by<br />

groups of people all wanting to touch<br />

the garland and they called me Don ji.<br />

For the rest of the stay that became my<br />

name!<br />

Do you have any advice for new<br />

volunteers. Is there anything you<br />

wish new volunteers knew?<br />

Do you want to make a difference?<br />

Are you looking for a way to contribute<br />

to your community in a valuable way?<br />

You can make a change through volunteering!<br />

I find volunteering is one of<br />

the most rewarding projects you can<br />

be involved in. It takes a little of your<br />

time to help to improve so many other<br />

people’s lives, and the satisfaction you<br />

receive back is tenfold.<br />

How about new volunteer managers?<br />

Do you have any advice for them?<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> management requires<br />

taking on many different roles and responsibilities.<br />

It includes fundraising,<br />

human resources, event management,<br />

and community leadership just to<br />

name a few. Use those learnings from<br />

other sectors and your previous experience<br />

in the work you will be doing.<br />

Doing so will help you improve your<br />

own skills and those of others in your<br />

day-to-day life.<br />

What qualities make a good<br />

volunteer manager?<br />

A good volunteer manager should be<br />

good at leadership and communication.<br />

They should set good examples for others<br />

to follow. They need to know when<br />

to lead and when to delegate actions<br />

and responsibilities to their board<br />

members. They need to show appreciation<br />

and respect to board members<br />

and staff. It is very important for them<br />

to appreciate the time and effort of<br />

the volunteers they work with day in,<br />

and day out, which have contributed<br />

towards the success of their organization.<br />

A good volunteer manager should<br />

hold at least one volunteer recognition<br />

day every year.<br />

12 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Boards<br />

Don Monsour<br />

Currently Sits On:<br />

What is your best advice to raise<br />

awareness and funds?<br />

Start an awareness campaign. Host<br />

an event, including cohosting with<br />

other non-for-profit organizations.<br />

Publicize what your organization does<br />

and how it does it. Use social media and<br />

flyers to get the word out.<br />

What are the key differences with<br />

working for profits vs. non-profits?<br />

For profit business it’s the investors<br />

who profit. For not-for-profit the<br />

volunteers profit by helping others<br />

less fortunate. For-profit businesses<br />

seek investors to help them launch and<br />

grow their businesses. In exchange, investors<br />

receive a portion of any profits<br />

made. Non-profit organizations seek<br />

donations or grants. All profits after<br />

expenses are used to help in making<br />

their society better.<br />

What is the best way to recognize<br />

volunteers?<br />

Hold an annual event just to recognize<br />

board members who have gone<br />

above and beyond what was asked<br />

of them. Invite a well-known guest<br />

speaker and perhaps include a silent<br />

auction to raise money and promote<br />

what your society does as well.<br />

Where do you see the biggest<br />

volunteering void?<br />

After Covid finding volunteers has<br />

become more difficult. Raising funds<br />

has also become more of a challenge.<br />

How can charities and organizations<br />

find quality volunteers?<br />

I find the Times Colonist free Sunday<br />

section on volunteer opportunities one<br />

of the most successful ways of recruiting<br />

people interested in volunteering.<br />

Use your social media network, word<br />

of mouth, volunteer fairs and numerous<br />

free sites such as LinkedIn. Make<br />

sure when you advertise you give<br />

a clear and accurate description of<br />

exactly what you are looking for and<br />

their responsibilities such as hours of<br />

commitment, etc.<br />

How can someone who is shy find a<br />

place to volunteer?<br />

Someone who is extremely shy can<br />

get the support they need, and volunteering<br />

is a great way to overcome<br />

shyness. You’d be surprised how many<br />

shy people you will find on community<br />

boards. Most boards will work<br />

with you and support you while you<br />

get your feet on the ground. There is<br />

no better way to meet new people and<br />

make new friends than by serving on<br />

a volunteer board. I have met many of<br />

my best friends while serving on volunteer<br />

boards and committees.<br />

How do you find time to be on<br />

15 boards?<br />

By dedicating all my spare time,<br />

seven days a week, to help wherever<br />

and whenever I can. The busier I am<br />

the less time I have to think about what<br />

bothers me.<br />

Any other thoughts?<br />

You’re never too old to volunteer. I<br />

am 84 and I look forward to getting<br />

going each day to try and help wherever<br />

and whenever I can. Keeping busy<br />

volunteering helps to keep you fit both<br />

physically and mentally. It is always<br />

better to give than to get. Ther more<br />

time I give to charities, the better I feel!<br />

Accessible Transportation<br />

Advisory Committee – ATAC<br />

British Columbia Restaurant<br />

and Food Services Association<br />

British Columbia Chefs<br />

Association<br />

British Columbia Schizophrenia<br />

Society<br />

BC Food Safe Steering Program<br />

Committee<br />

CFAX Santas Anonymous<br />

Society<br />

Community Association<br />

Land Use Committee<br />

CRD – Solid Waste Advisory<br />

Committee<br />

Culinary Federation of Victoria<br />

Fairfield Gonzales<br />

Community Association<br />

Island Deaf and Hard of Hearing<br />

Centre<br />

Late Night Advisory<br />

Committee, City of Victoria<br />

Nature Trails Society – Victoria<br />

Victoria Community<br />

Association Network<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Victoria<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 13


IDHHC would like to congratulate<br />

Board Director Don Monsour on the<br />

well-deserved honor of being recognized<br />

as one of Victoria’s <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Champions.<br />

We celebrate Don’s over 45 years of service in the community and<br />

thank him for choosing IDHHC to share his talents and time in support<br />

of our work with the Deaf and hard of hearing community across<br />

Vancouver Island. As IDHHC’s Chair of the Board Governance<br />

Committee we benefit greatly from his many years of Board experience<br />

and his leadership and expertise in excellence in governance.<br />

As a nonprofit membership organization, the agency is governed and lead by volunteer<br />

Board Directors who bring their time and talents, passion and dedication to provide strategic<br />

direction and policy development to guide the work to deliver the mission and vision.<br />

IDHHC is grateful to all our volunteers including those who champion the Sound of Change Initiative,<br />

providing free refurbished hearing aids to low-income individuals. To date 750 new and 175 returning<br />

clients have received over 1,600 refurbished hearing aids, which have a retail value of over $4 million dollars.<br />

These hearing aids have provided profound positive impact to their quality of life.<br />

IDHHC cannot provide these services alone. We thank Don Monsour and ALL of the volunteers,<br />

who together with the staff team, deliver unique and personalized services in this community.<br />

Victoria Office<br />

301 – 3960 Quadra St<br />

idhhc@idhhc.ca<br />

250.592.8144<br />

Want to know more<br />

about our work?<br />

Go to idhhc.ca or call us<br />

today—we are here to help.<br />

Nanaimo Office<br />

102 – 6588 Applecross Rd<br />

nanaimo@idhhc.ca<br />

250.753.0999<br />

14 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Children & Youth<br />

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria<br />

250-475-1117 X40<br />

bigbrothersbigsisters.ca<br />

Boys and Girls Club Services<br />

of Greater Victoria<br />

250-384-9133<br />

bgcvic.org<br />

C-FAX Santas Anonymous<br />

Society<br />

250-920-4644<br />

cfaxsantas.com<br />

CFAX Santas Anonymous Society is a local<br />

children’s charity<br />

working year-round to<br />

help local families with<br />

children, in need. Santas is 95% supported by<br />

400 volunteers each year sharing their skills<br />

and time!<br />

Children’s Health Foundation<br />

of Vancouver Island<br />

250-940-4950<br />

islandkidsfirst.com<br />

CHOICES Adoption & Counselling<br />

250-479-9811<br />

choicesadoption.ca<br />

Community Options<br />

for Children & Families<br />

250-380-6363<br />

cocf.ca<br />

Girls Rock Camp Victoria Society<br />

grcvi.ca<br />

Help Fill A Dream Foundation<br />

250-382-3135<br />

helpfilladream.com<br />

Island Kids Cancer Association<br />

ikca.ca<br />

KidSport Greater Victoria<br />

250-380-1518<br />

kidsportvictoria.ca<br />

Scouts Francophones De Victoria<br />

604-936-3624<br />

scoutsfranco.com<br />

Support Soweto Junior School<br />

250-598-0708<br />

supportsowetojuniorschool.org<br />

The Victoria Youth Clinic Society<br />

(Foundry)<br />

250-383-3552<br />

foundryvictoria.ca<br />

Vancouver Island Cooperative<br />

Preschool Association<br />

vicpa.org<br />

Victoria General Hospital Auxiliary<br />

250-294-4078<br />

vgha.ca<br />

Victoria Youth Empowerment<br />

Society<br />

250-383-3514<br />

vyes.ca<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 15


Social Services<br />

1 Up Victoria Single Parent<br />

Resource Centre<br />

250-385-1114 X3<br />

singleparentvictoria.ca<br />

9–10 Club Serving Soup to<br />

the Hungry Society<br />

778-440-7687<br />

thesoupkitchen.ca<br />

Action Committee of People<br />

with Disabilities<br />

250-383-4105<br />

actioncommittee.ca<br />

Anawim Companions Society<br />

250-382-0283<br />

anawimhouse.com<br />

CFB Esquimalt Military<br />

Family Resource Centre<br />

250-363-2640<br />

emfrc.com<br />

CHOICES Adoption & Counselling<br />

250-479-9811<br />

choicesadoption.ca<br />

Community Social Planning Council<br />

250-383-6166<br />

communitycouncil.ca<br />

Esquimalt <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Services<br />

250-412-8511<br />

esquimalt.ca<br />

Family Caregivers Society of BC<br />

250-384-0408<br />

familycaregiversbc.ca<br />

Foster Parent Support Services Society<br />

778-430-5459<br />

fpsss.com<br />

Global Village Store – Victoria Global<br />

Village Society<br />

250-388-5591<br />

victoriaglobalvillage.ca<br />

Gorge View Society<br />

250-360-1977<br />

gorgeviewsociety.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Down Syndrome<br />

Society<br />

gvdss.org<br />

Greater Victoria Housing Society<br />

250-384-3434<br />

greatervichousing.org<br />

Greater Victoria Women’s<br />

Shelter Society<br />

gvwss.org<br />

Inter-Cultural Association<br />

250-388-4728<br />

icavictoria.org<br />

John Howard Society of Victoria<br />

250-386-3428<br />

jhsvic.ca<br />

Lifetime Networks Victoria<br />

250-477-4112<br />

lifetimenetworks.org<br />

MADD Canada – Victoria Chapter<br />

1-877-676-6233<br />

madd.ca<br />

Seth, Carmen, and Hana, Campbell River<br />

16 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Oak Bay Emergency Social Services<br />

250-598-3311<br />

oakbay.ca<br />

Our Place<br />

250-388-7112<br />

ourplacesociety.com<br />

Pacific Centre Family Services<br />

Association<br />

1-866-478-8357<br />

pcfsa.org<br />

Parent Support Services Society of BC<br />

604-669-1616<br />

parentsupportbc.ca<br />

Saanich Neighbourhood Place<br />

250-360-1148<br />

snplace.org<br />

Sooke Shelter Society<br />

250-858-7700<br />

sookeshelter.org<br />

Sooke Transition House Society<br />

250-642-2591<br />

sooketransitionhousesociety.com<br />

SUPPLY Victoria<br />

778-700-7233<br />

supplyvictoria.ca<br />

Vancouver Isl. Counselling Centre<br />

for Immigrants & Refugees<br />

778-404-1777<br />

viccir.org<br />

Victoria Community Resources<br />

Society – Twin Oaks<br />

250-658-4931<br />

vcrs.ca<br />

Victoria Cool Aid Society<br />

250-595-8619<br />

coolaid.org<br />

Victoria Rainbow Kitchen Society<br />

250-384-2069<br />

rainbowkitchen.ca<br />

Victoria Women In Need<br />

Community Cooperative<br />

250-480-4006 x204<br />

womeninneed.ca<br />

Victoria Women’s Transition House<br />

Society<br />

250-592-2927 x229<br />

vwth.bc.ca<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 17


7 Ways Parents Can Inspire<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>ism in Teens<br />

Encouraging teenagers to volunteer<br />

is not just about making a difference<br />

in the community; it’s about<br />

fostering their personal growth and helping<br />

them to develop a sense of responsibility.<br />

As parents, you can guide your<br />

teens towards these meaningful volunteer<br />

experiences. Here are some practical<br />

strategies that will inspire your teenagers<br />

to get excited about volunteering in<br />

their community.<br />

1. Be an Example<br />

Demonstrating your own commitment<br />

to volunteering sets a great example for<br />

your teenagers. Bring them along to your<br />

volunteer events and engage in volunteer<br />

activities with them. <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> occasionally<br />

as an entire family. This could mean<br />

participating in community cleanups,<br />

volunteering at a local homeless or animal<br />

shelter, or helping out at community<br />

events. Your involvement shows them<br />

how important it is to give back and gives<br />

them an opportunity to try out volunteering<br />

with you beside them.<br />

2. Help Them Search Out<br />

Opportunities that Will<br />

Interest Them<br />

Teenagers are more likely to get involved<br />

in volunteer work when it aligns<br />

with their interests. Have a conversation<br />

with them about their interests and hobbies,<br />

as well as about anything they feel<br />

a special pull to help with, such as environmental<br />

concerns or animal welfare.<br />

Then, help them explore volunteer opportunities<br />

that relate to their interests<br />

and passions.<br />

3. Find Other Teens Who<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong><br />

Ask your friends and the parents at<br />

your school if their children volunteer<br />

in any capacity. Your teenager may feel<br />

better about volunteering if they can tag<br />

along with a friend. Plus, your teen may<br />

wish to try a few volunteer activities<br />

with their friends to see which one fits<br />

best for them.<br />

4. Allow Them to Start Small<br />

You may be keen for your teenager to<br />

commit to volunteering weekly; however,<br />

it may be best for them to start off slowly.<br />

For teenagers new to volunteering, starting<br />

with occasional volunteering can<br />

boost their confidence and enthusiasm.<br />

They can participate in one-time volunteer<br />

events or short-term projects. This<br />

18 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


approach provides them with a taste<br />

of how rewarding volunteering is and<br />

helps them understand the value of their<br />

contributions. As they gain volunteer<br />

experience, they may wish to take on<br />

longer-term volunteer commitments.<br />

5. Be Supportive<br />

Being supportive is crucial for teenagers<br />

to feel comfortable discussing their<br />

volunteering experiences. Listen to what<br />

they have to say about their experiences.<br />

Sometimes volunteering in certain communities<br />

can be difficult, so be there to<br />

help them with the ups and downs of<br />

their volunteer journey. Perhaps the<br />

place they choose to volunteer with is<br />

continually proving to be more difficult<br />

than expected, or it no longer fits with<br />

a new school or activity schedule. Hear<br />

them out and support them by helping<br />

them adjust their schedule or by finding<br />

another volunteer commitment, if necessary.<br />

Are you and your family passionate about helping your<br />

local community but not sure how to get started?<br />

Our Approach: We work collaboratively with you, as volunteers. By joining ICO as<br />

volunteer team members, you will provide the fundraising expertise and project plan.<br />

ICO will provide its services as a charity, delivering pro bono administrative and<br />

professional services to your community project. Our mission is to advance education<br />

and alleviate poverty and we support local projects that align with our mission.<br />

Contact us to learn more about ICO and how<br />

we support Vancouver Island communities.<br />

Email us today:<br />

info@innovativecommunities.org<br />

6. Create a <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Group<br />

As mentioned above, volunteering<br />

with friends can help your teen get started<br />

or find new interests. Gather a group<br />

of your friends with similar age teens to<br />

create a volunteer group who can work<br />

together, at least at first, to support and<br />

encourage each other.<br />

7. Respect Their Choices<br />

While you’re guiding your teenager<br />

towards volunteering, it’s important to<br />

keep in mind that they are individuals<br />

with their own preferences. Allow them<br />

to choose volunteer opportunities that<br />

resonate with them, even if they differ<br />

from your suggestions. Forcing them<br />

to volunteer with you regularly may<br />

backfire on you. Respecting their choices<br />

helps them develop a deeper sense of responsibility,<br />

plus you’ll be more likely to<br />

have an eager volunteer.<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 19


Animals<br />

BC SPCA<br />

250-478-9453 | spca.bc.ca<br />

ElderDog Canada – Victoria Chapter<br />

1-855-336-4226 | elderdog.ca<br />

Pacific Animal Therapy Society<br />

250-590-9082 | patspets.ca<br />

Corporate<br />

Better Business Bureau<br />

of Vancouver Island<br />

250-386-6348 | vi.bbb.org<br />

Coast Capital Savings<br />

250-483-7000 | coastcapitalsavings.com<br />

Vancity<br />

250-519-7000 | vancity.com<br />

Indigenous<br />

Indigenous Perspectives Society<br />

250-391-0007<br />

ipsociety.ca<br />

Indigenous Perspectives Society: Centre of<br />

Excellence in Community <strong>Ed</strong>ucation (IPS)<br />

is a charitable and not-for-profit social<br />

enterprise that offers specialized training<br />

and consulting services to help foster a<br />

deeper understanding of Indigenous<br />

perspectives, cultural differences and<br />

the need for self-determination.<br />

M’akola ILBC Housing Society<br />

250-474-1524 X2<br />

makola.bc.ca<br />

R.A.V.E.N. Respecting Aboriginal<br />

Values & Environmental Needs<br />

250-383-2331<br />

raventrust.com<br />

Newcomers<br />

Inter-Cultural Association<br />

250-388-4728<br />

icavictoria.org<br />

Vancouver Island Counselling Centre<br />

for Immigrants & Refugees<br />

778-404-1777<br />

viccir.org<br />

Spiritual<br />

Centre for Earth & Spirit Society<br />

250-592-6400<br />

centreforearthandspirit.ca<br />

International Metaphysical Academy<br />

250-472-0909<br />

metaphysicalacademy.com<br />

20 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Environmental<br />

Capital Region Food & Agricultural<br />

Initiatives Roundtable<br />

250-896-7004<br />

crfair.ca<br />

Centre for Earth & Spirit Society<br />

250-592-6400<br />

centreforearthandspirit.ca<br />

Friends of Bowker Creek Society<br />

250-370-4365<br />

bowkercreek.org<br />

Garry Oak Meadows Preservation<br />

Society<br />

250-391-9480<br />

garryoak.info<br />

Greater Victoria Compost<br />

& Conservation <strong>Ed</strong>ucation Society<br />

250-386-9676<br />

compost.bc.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Green Team<br />

778-677-9078<br />

greenteamscanada.ca<br />

Horticulture Centre of the Pacific<br />

250-479-6162<br />

hcp.ca<br />

Land Trust Alliance of BC<br />

250-590-1921<br />

ltabc.ca<br />

Oak & Orca Bioregional School<br />

250-383-6609<br />

orcapod.ca<br />

Peninsula Streams Society<br />

250-363-6480<br />

peninsulastreams.ca<br />

R.A.V.E.N. Respecting Aboriginal<br />

Values & Environmental Needs<br />

250-383-2331<br />

raventrust.com<br />

Rocky Point Bird Observatory<br />

rpbo.org<br />

Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea<br />

(New Marine Centre Society)<br />

250-665-7511<br />

salishseacentre.org<br />

Southern Vancouver Island<br />

Nature Trails Society<br />

NatureTrailsSociety.com<br />

Swan Lake/Christmas Hill<br />

Nature Sanctuary<br />

250-479-0211<br />

swanlake.bc.ca<br />

TLC The Land Conservancy<br />

250-479-8053<br />

conservancy.bc.ca<br />

We Are<br />

Hiring<br />

(we pay in gratitude<br />

and sloppy wet kisses)<br />

Ready for the Best<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Job Ever?<br />

ElderDog Canada helps<br />

keep love in the home by<br />

assisting seniors with<br />

services like dog-walking<br />

so they can keep their<br />

canine companions by<br />

their side for as long as<br />

possible. We are looking<br />

for dedicated, committed, dogloving<br />

volunteers<br />

to join our team.<br />

elderdogvictorialdr@gmail.com<br />

elderdog.ca<br />

1-855-336-4226<br />

info@elderdog.ca<br />

ELDERDOG<br />

CANADA<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 21


Be a part of the next issue of<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong><br />

MATTERS<br />

Coming in Spring 2024<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> is a semi-annual publication with the goal to spotlight and celebrate volunteers<br />

in the CRD. It is dedicated to amplifying the importance of volunteering and providing valuable<br />

resources for non-profit groups, organizations and individuals. Our mission is to inspire, educate and<br />

connect volunteers and non-profit organizations to create positive change and make a lasting impact.<br />

Key Content Areas<br />

Target Market<br />

• <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Spotlight: Inspiring stories of volunteers from various<br />

backgrounds, highlighting the transformative power of volunteering.<br />

• <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Management Strategies: Guidance, tips and best practices<br />

to effectively recruit, train, retain and recognize volunteers.<br />

• <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Skill Development: Resources, workshops and training<br />

opportunities to help volunteers acquire and develop essential skills.<br />

• <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>ism in Action: Showcasing successful volunteer-driven<br />

initiatives, collaborations and community projects.<br />

Our magazine caters to a diverse audience passionate about volunteering<br />

and includes the following segments.<br />

• Non-profit Organizations: Charities, NGOs, community groups and<br />

social enterprises seeking guidance, strategies and tools to enhance<br />

their volunteer programs, engage volunteers and further their missions.<br />

• <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>s: Individuals looking for meaningful volunteer opportunities,<br />

seeking inspiration and wanting to make a difference in their<br />

communities.<br />

• <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Coordinators: Professionals responsible for managing and<br />

coordinating volunteer programs within non-profit organizations,<br />

looking for best practices, tips and resources to optimize their<br />

volunteer management efforts.<br />

Deadlines: Sales—March 27; Distribution—April 8.<br />

Circulation: Estimated readership of 25,000 (7,500 copies).<br />

22 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />

Contact: volunteermatters@islandparent.ca<br />

Distribution: Throughout the CRD<br />

at targeted pick up locations including<br />

downtown Victoria businesses,<br />

grocery stores, libraries, recreation<br />

centres and community partners.


What Would Happen if<br />

There Were NO <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>s<br />

It’s hard to imagine a world where<br />

there were no volunteers. It would be<br />

a very difficult and frightening world<br />

to live in. You may not even realize exactly<br />

how important the time and energy<br />

volunteers give is, and what would happen<br />

if volunteerism didn’t exist. Here are<br />

a few things to think about.<br />

1. Community Support<br />

Would Cease to Exist<br />

Community events are mostly powered<br />

by volunteers, as are the majority<br />

of local food banks, homeless outreach<br />

services, and other community services.<br />

Without volunteers, seniors would have<br />

to find other ways to get to appointments,<br />

receive food delivery, and do without<br />

volunteer visitors. There would be little<br />

to no food services for the homeless and<br />

others in need, and most food banks<br />

would shut down, or at least cut their<br />

hours.<br />

2. Non-Profits Would Be<br />

Left Hanging<br />

Non-profit organizations who help important<br />

causes like the environment and<br />

education are powered by volunteers.<br />

Without volunteers, these organizations<br />

would likely be unable to continue<br />

operating, and a lot less funds would be<br />

raised. This would mean there would be<br />

no forward steps towards a positive outcome<br />

for all.<br />

3. The Environment Would<br />

Be in Worse Shape<br />

We all know the environment is in<br />

rough shape, and changes need to be<br />

made from all levels to make any difference.<br />

However, without volunteers<br />

planting trees, doing beach cleanup, or<br />

raising funds and awareness for wildlife<br />

and other environmental concerns,<br />

the environment, and the communities<br />

around us would already be in much<br />

worse shape.<br />

4. <strong>Ed</strong>ucation Would Suffer<br />

Although there are teachers, administrators,<br />

and other school staff to educate<br />

our children, volunteers play a huge role<br />

in education! Parent advisory groups<br />

help to raise funds for the school to buy<br />

more supplies for the classrooms, fund<br />

playground equipment, and allow kids<br />

to go on fun, educational field trips. Student<br />

mentors and tutors are often unpaid<br />

volunteers who help to guide our future<br />

adults through the school system.<br />

5. Hospitals & Healthcare<br />

Would Be More Difficult<br />

to Navigate<br />

Hospital volunteers have duties that<br />

range from bringing patients water,<br />

snacks, books, and blankets, to helping<br />

patients navigate their way through the<br />

various departments for day surgeries<br />

and other testing and waiting with them<br />

for family or taxi pickups. Without volunteers,<br />

nurses and other hospital staff<br />

would have less time to help patients<br />

with their health needs, and patients<br />

would likely have a less pleasant experience.<br />

6. The Arts Scene Would<br />

Basically Disappear<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>s often are the ones who organize<br />

events at galleries, musical shows,<br />

and other arts and cultural events. Even<br />

at provincially funded attractions such as<br />

museums, it’s often the volunteers who<br />

do tours, answer questions, and act as<br />

security for some exhibits.<br />

7. There Would Be More<br />

Chaos in Times of Crisis<br />

When disasters like fire, earthquakes,<br />

hurricanes, or floods strike, volunteers<br />

are often the first on the scene, offering<br />

help, support, and care to those who are<br />

affected. If there were no volunteers,<br />

people would be on their own until medical<br />

professionals and other support arrived.<br />

Some smaller communities rely on<br />

volunteers to power their fire departments,<br />

and other important services. And<br />

without volunteers, these communities<br />

may have longer response time to receive<br />

crews from other communities. Or they<br />

may receive no service at all.<br />

8. The Economy Would<br />

Get Worse<br />

If there were suddenly no volunteers,<br />

it’s likely hospitals, museums, and other<br />

services would need to hire paid professionals<br />

to fill some of these positions.<br />

This would require more funding for<br />

these salaries, which could mean cutbacks<br />

in services and higher costs for<br />

things we’ve come to rely on.<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 23


<strong>Ed</strong>ucation<br />

BC Aviation Museum<br />

250-655-3300<br />

bcam.net<br />

BeaYOUtiful Foundation<br />

778-918-3059<br />

thebeayoutifulfoundation.com<br />

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria<br />

250-475-1117 x40<br />

bigbrothersbigsisters.ca<br />

Bridges for Women Society<br />

250-385-7410<br />

bfws.ca<br />

Camosun College-Co-op <strong>Ed</strong>ucation<br />

& Career Services<br />

250-370-3420<br />

camosun.bc.ca<br />

Diabetes Canada<br />

778-622-4275<br />

diabetes.ca<br />

Girls Rock Camp Victoria Society<br />

grcvi.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Alliance for Literacy<br />

literacyalliance.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Compost &<br />

Conservation <strong>Ed</strong>ucation Society<br />

250-386-9676<br />

compost.bc.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Down Syndrome<br />

Society<br />

gvdss.org<br />

Horticulture Centre of the Pacific<br />

250-479-6162<br />

hcp.ca<br />

Indigenous Perspectives Society<br />

250-391-0007<br />

ipsociety.ca<br />

InnovativeCommunities.Org<br />

Foundation<br />

250-896-3236<br />

innovativecommunities.org<br />

International Metaphysical Academy<br />

250-472-0909<br />

metaphysicalacademy.com<br />

James Bay Community School Society<br />

250-389-1470<br />

jamesbaycentre.ca<br />

Learning Through Loss<br />

250-413-3114<br />

learningthroughloss.org<br />

Mental Health Society<br />

of Greater Victoria<br />

mhsvictoria.org<br />

Metchosin International<br />

Summer School of the Arts<br />

250-391-2415<br />

missa.ca<br />

Oak & Orca Bioregional School<br />

250-383-6609<br />

orcapod.ca<br />

Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence<br />

Society<br />

250-220-2587<br />

pise.ca<br />

Pacific Training Centre for the Blind<br />

250-580-4910<br />

pacifictrainingcentre.ca<br />

Scouts Francophones De Victoria<br />

604-936-3624<br />

scoutsfranco.com<br />

Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea<br />

(New Marine Centre Society)<br />

250-665-7511<br />

salishseacentre.org<br />

Support Soweto Junior School<br />

250-598-0708<br />

supportsowetojuniorschool.org<br />

The Circle Salt Spring<br />

<strong>Ed</strong>ucation Society<br />

250-537-1336<br />

thecircleeducation.org<br />

University of Victoria Graduate<br />

Students’ Society<br />

250-472-4543<br />

uvic.ca<br />

UVic Community Engaged Learning<br />

Department<br />

250-472-5667<br />

uvic.ca<br />

Uvic Institute on Aging &<br />

Lifelong Health<br />

uvic.ca<br />

Vancouver Island Cooperative<br />

Preschool Association<br />

vicpa.org<br />

Victoria Literacy Connection Society<br />

250-385-0014<br />

victorialiteracyconnection.ca<br />

WITS Programs Foundation<br />

250-386-7625<br />

witsprogram.ca<br />

Worklink Employment Society<br />

250-478-9525<br />

worklink.bc.ca<br />

24 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Be a Part of Community-<br />

Engaged Learning at UVic!<br />

Community-Engaged Learning (CEL)<br />

is applied learning with community<br />

organizations of all sizes and shapes<br />

(including non-profits, First Nations, small<br />

businesses, different levels of government,<br />

and grassroots initiatives). These experiences<br />

are facilitated by course instructors<br />

and supported by the CEL Office at UVic.<br />

Students earn credit for their contributions,<br />

and the community partners, instructors<br />

and students work collaboratively to shape<br />

the volunteer experience to meet community<br />

needs and learning goals. Every year<br />

there are hundreds of collaborations between<br />

students and community partners,<br />

across all areas of study and sectors.<br />

Jade (see photo to the right) was a<br />

student who collaborated with Friends of<br />

Music, a charitable organization that offers<br />

musical opportunities to persons recovering<br />

from mental illness. She contributed to<br />

their work by taking photos and being a<br />

part of their activities. Jade was in a Social<br />

Sciences course that explores the role of<br />

nonprofits organizations in society. This<br />

experience taught Jade a lot about how<br />

non-profit organizations function and how<br />

they contribute to our community. And<br />

this experience gave Friends of Music an<br />

opportunity to have documentation of<br />

their programing, a valuable resource for<br />

outreach and grant applications.<br />

UVic is so appreciative of the hundreds<br />

Jade receiving the FoM volunteer of the year award<br />

Students in the Clayoquot Sound Field School created teaching resources with local schools<br />

of community partners in our region<br />

and beyond who contribute to student<br />

learning. We are humbled by the work of<br />

community partners in support of social,<br />

ecological and economic issues in our region.<br />

We are inspired by the instructors and<br />

community partners who thoughfuully<br />

design applied learning experiences that<br />

align with participation in and contribution<br />

to community initiatives. We are inspired<br />

by the students who bravely try new<br />

things, apply their experiences, knowledge<br />

and skills and wrestle with how they can<br />

and want to be actively involved in the<br />

world around them.<br />

If you are a potential community partner,<br />

the CEL Office can work with you to connect<br />

with instructors and students across<br />

UVic who are keen to be part of applied<br />

learning with community.<br />

If you are a student, the CEL Office can<br />

support you to explore and/or connect<br />

your volunteerism with your course learning<br />

at UVic.<br />

How to get involved: celc1@uvic.ca | 250-472-5667<br />

onlineacademiccommunity.uvic.ca/LearnAnywhere/cel<br />

The CEL Office at UVic has benefited from the guidance and support of organizations like <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Victoria.<br />

We are committed to collectively working towards more just, sustainable and healthy communities.<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 25


Seniors<br />

Abbeyfield House St. Peter’s Society<br />

250-479-6140<br />

abbeyfieldstpeters.org<br />

Broadmead Care Society<br />

250-658-0311<br />

broadmeadcare.com<br />

Cook Street Village Activity Centre<br />

250-384-6542<br />

csvac.ca<br />

James Bay Care Centre<br />

250-388-6457<br />

reveraliving.com<br />

James Bay New Horizons Society<br />

250-386-3035<br />

jamesbaynewhorizons.ca<br />

James Bay New Horizons<br />

provides opportunities<br />

for individuals to lead<br />

more meaningful, active, healthy and<br />

complete lives.<br />

Government<br />

Aberdeen Hospital<br />

250-370-5626<br />

islandhealth.ca<br />

Camosun College Co-op <strong>Ed</strong>ucation<br />

& Career Services<br />

250-370-3420<br />

camosun.bc.ca<br />

CFB Esquimalt Military Family<br />

Resource Centre<br />

250-363-2640<br />

emfrc.com<br />

Kiwanis Pavilion<br />

250-598-2022<br />

obkp.org<br />

Mount Douglas Seniors Housing<br />

Society<br />

250-721-1818<br />

mdshs.net<br />

Mount St. Mary Hospital<br />

250-480-3100 x3201<br />

mountstmary.ca<br />

Oak Bay Lodge, VIHA<br />

250-370-6642<br />

viha.ca<br />

City of Victoria<br />

250-361-0397<br />

victoria.ca<br />

CRD Parks<br />

250-360-3329<br />

crd.bc.ca<br />

District of Saanich Pulling Together<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Program<br />

250-475-5522<br />

saanich.ca/EN/main/parks-recreationcommunity/parks/natural-areas/volunteerfor-pulling-together.html<br />

Selkirk Seniors Village<br />

250-940-1028<br />

selkirkplace.ca<br />

Seniors Serving Seniors Association<br />

of BC<br />

250-413-3211<br />

sssbc.org<br />

Silver Threads – Saanich<br />

250-382-3151<br />

silverthreads.ca<br />

The Glenshiel Housing Society<br />

250-383-4164<br />

theglenshiel.bc.ca<br />

Emergency Management Victoria<br />

(AKA VictoriaReady)<br />

250-920-3373<br />

victoria.ca<br />

Royal BC Museum<br />

250-387-7902<br />

royalbcmuseum.bc.ca<br />

Saanich Emergency Program<br />

250-475-7140<br />

saanich.ca<br />

Saanich Police Department,<br />

Block Watch<br />

250-475-4321 x4365<br />

saanichpolice.ca<br />

Town of View Royal<br />

250-479-6800<br />

viewroyal.ca<br />

Victoria Police Department<br />

250-995-7654<br />

vicpd.ca<br />

26 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Sports & Recreation<br />

Bike Victoria Society<br />

250-920-5775<br />

biketowork.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame<br />

gvshof.ca<br />

KidSport Greater Victoria<br />

250-380-1518<br />

kidsportvictoria.ca<br />

We our volunteers!<br />

Monterey Recreation Centre<br />

250-370-7300<br />

oakbay.ca<br />

Pacific Institute for<br />

Sport Excellence Society<br />

250-220-2587<br />

pise.ca<br />

Power to Be Adventure<br />

Therapy Society<br />

250-385-2363<br />

powertobe.ca<br />

Royal Victoria Marathon<br />

runvictoriamarathon.com<br />

Saanich Parks & Recreation Services<br />

250-475-5502<br />

saanich.ca<br />

South Island Mountain Bike Soicety<br />

simbs.com<br />

Special Olympics BC – Victoria<br />

604-737-3078<br />

specialolympics.ca/british-columbia<br />

Victoria Dragon Boat Festival Society<br />

604-688-2382<br />

victoriadragonboatfestival.com<br />

WHY VOLUNTEER<br />

WITH US?<br />

Get hands-on in our<br />

parks<br />

Help your neighbours<br />

in an emergency<br />

Share your knowledge<br />

on a council committee<br />

Explore your passion<br />

for recreation<br />

Meet great people &<br />

learn new skills<br />

We appreciate the contributions of the<br />

dedicated volunteers in our community. Join us!<br />

Learn more at<br />

esquimalt.ca/volunteer<br />

YMCA-YWCA of Vancouver Island<br />

250-386-7511<br />

vancouverislandy.ca<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 27


Arts & Culture<br />

Alliance Française Victoria<br />

250-686-4065<br />

afvictoria.ca<br />

Art Gallery of Greater Victoria<br />

250-384-4171 x232<br />

aggv.ca<br />

Arts on View<br />

250-388-9166<br />

artsonview.ca<br />

artsREACH<br />

250-475-0354<br />

artsreach.ca<br />

Ballet Victoria<br />

250-380-6063<br />

balletvictoria.ca<br />

Founded in 2002, Ballet Victoria is a boutique<br />

professional ballet company with 12 dancers<br />

that offers four yearly mainstage productions<br />

each season in Victoria and also tours BC<br />

and abroad. BV offers many opportunities to<br />

volunteer throughout the season in valuable<br />

ways.<br />

CFB Esquimalt Naval &<br />

Military Museum<br />

250-363-4312<br />

forces.gc.ca<br />

Dance Victoria Society<br />

250-595-1829<br />

dancevictoria.com<br />

Destination Greater Victoria<br />

(Tourism Victoria)<br />

250-953-2022<br />

tourismvictoria.com<br />

Early Music Society of the Islands<br />

250-882-5058<br />

gov.bc.ca<br />

Friends of Government House<br />

fghgs.ca<br />

Friends of Music Society<br />

250-592-5114<br />

friendsofmusic.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Festival Society<br />

250-382-3111<br />

gvfs.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Folk Festival Society<br />

folktoria.ca<br />

Greater Victoria Performing Arts<br />

Festival<br />

250-386-9223<br />

gvpaf.org<br />

Intrepid Theatre Company Society<br />

250-383-2663<br />

intrepidtheatre.com<br />

James Bay Market Society<br />

250-381-5323<br />

jamesbaymarket.com<br />

La Societe Francophone De Victoria<br />

250-388-7350<br />

sfvictoria.ca<br />

Maritime Museum of BC<br />

250-385-4222<br />

mmbc.bc.ca<br />

Metchosin International<br />

Summer School of the Arts<br />

250-391-2415<br />

missa.ca<br />

28 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Open Space Arts Society<br />

250-383-8833<br />

openspace.ca<br />

Pandora Arts Collective Society<br />

250-920-7227<br />

pandoraarts.ca<br />

Royal BC Museum<br />

250-387-7902<br />

royalbcmuseum.bc.ca<br />

Sooke Region Historical Society<br />

What’s Your <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Story?<br />

250-642-6351<br />

Victoria is collecting volunteering stories for a<br />

sookeregionmuseum.com<br />

Victoria BC Ska & Reggae Society<br />

victoriaskafest.ca<br />

adventures in volunteering. If you have a story to share<br />

Victoria Dragon Boat Festival Society<br />

604-688-2382<br />

victoriadragonboatfestival.com<br />

Victoria Film Festival<br />

250-389-0444<br />

victoriafilmfestival.com<br />

Victoria Symphony<br />

250-385-9771<br />

victoriasymphony.ca<br />

West Shore Arts Council<br />

250-478-2286<br />

westshorearts.org<br />

What’s Your <strong>Vol</strong>unt<br />

What’s Your <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Story?<br />

What’s Your <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Story?<br />

new publication that celebrates older volunteers and their<br />

e-mail vinny@volunteervictoria.bc.ca or tel 250.386.2269.<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Victoria is collecting volunteering stories for a<br />

new This publication project is funded that celebrates in part by older the Government volunteers and of Canada their<br />

adventures New Horizons in volunteering. for Seniors Program. If you have a story to share<br />

e-mail vinny@volunteervictoria.bc.ca or tel 250.386.2269.<br />

volunteervictoria.bc.ca<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Victoria is collecting voluntee<br />

new publication that celebrates older v<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Victoria is collecting volunteering adventures stories in volunteering. for a If you have<br />

new publication that celebrates older e-mail volunteers vinny@volunteervictoria.bc.ca and their<br />

o<br />

adventures in volunteering. If you have a story to share<br />

This volunteervictoria.bc.ca This project is funded in part by the Go<br />

project is funded in part by the Government of Canada<br />

e-mail vinny@volunteervictoria.bc.ca or tel 250.386.2269.<br />

New Horizons for New Seniors Horizons Program. for Seniors Program.<br />

This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada<br />

New Horizons for Seniors Program.<br />

volunteervictoria.bc.ca<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 29


<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> Opportunities You<br />

May Not Have Thought Of<br />

When you think of volunteering<br />

certain things may come<br />

to mind. Working with the<br />

unhoused population, helping at a food<br />

bank, giving money or time to animal<br />

shelters, or supporting the known charities<br />

in your area. But there are many<br />

ways you can volunteer, so you’re likely<br />

to find an opportunity that really speaks<br />

to you. Here are a few ideas to get you<br />

started.<br />

The point is to think about what you<br />

already do and try to match it to a way<br />

you can help others. If you’re having<br />

trouble finding a way to match an opportunity<br />

with your talents, contact <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong><br />

Victoria or your local volunteer<br />

agency who can help.<br />

Use Technology to<br />

Help Others<br />

With technology taking over, there are<br />

many hotlines people can access via text<br />

appointments with drivers (and if there<br />

isn’t then create one!) But there are many<br />

others who may require drivers to get<br />

places. Perhaps there is a teenager who<br />

is a brilliant basketball player but is unable<br />

to get to practice due to his parents<br />

not having a vehicle, or there may be a<br />

younger person with health or mobility<br />

issues that is having trouble accessing<br />

appointments because they don’t qualify<br />

for the senior driver service.<br />

You may also be able to help by delivering<br />

food or medication from food banks<br />

and local health organizations to people<br />

who aren’t able to go in person.<br />

Utilize Your Talents<br />

This is the best place to start when<br />

you’re trying to find a way to volunteer.<br />

Because wherever your talents lie and<br />

what you love to do can almost always<br />

be transferred into a volunteer opportunity!<br />

Do you love to do crafts? Contact a<br />

local community centre to see if you can<br />

do crafts with seniors or children. Are<br />

you an avid reader? Perhaps the hospital<br />

may allow you to come up and read to<br />

children. Do people call you an amazing<br />

seamstress or knitter? Consider making<br />

some outfits, hats, or scarves for local<br />

charities to give to kids or the unhoused.<br />

Love art? <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> your time to do art<br />

therapy with youth mental health services.<br />

or social media to obtain mental health<br />

and other services. If you’re a whiz with<br />

technology, this could be an incredible<br />

opportunity to connect with people in<br />

need and help them get the help they<br />

require.<br />

Technology such as zoom, or another<br />

online video service can also help you<br />

connect with seniors or others who are<br />

immunocompromised and can’t leave the<br />

home. You can connect with people from<br />

all over the world, keeping them company<br />

and giving them a vital connection<br />

a few times a week.<br />

Become a Driver<br />

There is likely a service in your area<br />

that connects seniors who need to get to<br />

Organize a Clothing/<br />

Food/Money Drive in<br />

Your Community<br />

If you see a need in your community,<br />

go ahead and tackle it yourself by organizing<br />

an event to gather money or supplies.<br />

Maybe a community member or<br />

co-worker has recently lost a spouse or<br />

had a flood, and you want to help them<br />

get through this tough time. Or maybe<br />

you feel strongly about supporting a local<br />

animal shelter or another organization<br />

and want to help them.<br />

Set up a time and place to gather<br />

needed supplies and/or funds and spread<br />

the word on social media, and by using<br />

posters in your neighbourhood. Perhaps<br />

your community centre or local school<br />

could be a drop-off place and help you get<br />

the word out.<br />

Become a Blood/Plasma/<br />

Organ Donor<br />

As the Canadian Blood Services commercial<br />

says, “Blood, it’s in you to give.”<br />

It’s easy and generally takes less than an<br />

hour of your time to donate blood. Look<br />

online for your local donor centers and<br />

find out how easily you can give blood<br />

and plasma. Your donation can save a lot<br />

of lives!<br />

It’s also important to consider becoming<br />

an organ donor. There are a few different<br />

options for which organs you may<br />

be willing to donate, and a strict process<br />

when it comes to donation.<br />

30 <strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong>


Join Us! Learn How Mindful Leadership Can Support Psychologically Safe,<br />

Healthy Work Environments Where People Can Contribute Their Best.<br />

Labour shortages, staff burnout, and mental health issues are at an all-time high. Employers must adopt<br />

new strategies to support their teams. Learn leading edge, practical strategies with measurable results<br />

you can incorporate in your workplace now including:<br />

• How to effectively lead teams while creating a culture of mindfulness.<br />

• The latest research on mindfulness, its benefits and how it can improve psychological health and safety at work.<br />

• New mindfulness practices for yourself and your teams.<br />

• Learn, collaborate and connect with experts and peers.<br />

Learn more and register at bcalmconference.ca Early-bird registration in effect until October 4th!<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong>s play a<br />

vital role in fostering<br />

community growth and<br />

prosperity. They provide<br />

essential support for<br />

individuals dealing with<br />

challenges, advocate for<br />

better representation,<br />

offer a helping hand to<br />

those in need, and so<br />

much more. Undoubtedly,<br />

they are the heart and<br />

soul of community.<br />

We are so proud to<br />

support volunteers, and<br />

their selfless dedication,<br />

passion, and unyielding<br />

commitment to making<br />

British Columbia<br />

a better place.<br />

Hon. Mitzi Dean<br />

MLA, ESQUIMALT–METCHOSIN<br />

Mitzi.Dean.MLA@leg.bc.ca<br />

250-952-5885<br />

Ravi Parmar<br />

MLA, LANGFORD–JUAN DE FUCA<br />

Ravi.Parmar.MLA@leg.bc.ca<br />

250-391-2801<br />

Hon. Rob Fleming<br />

MLA, VICTORIA–SWAN LAKE<br />

Rob.Fleming.MLA@leg.bc.ca<br />

250-356-5013<br />

Hon. Lana Popham<br />

MLA, SAANICH SOUTH<br />

Lana.Popham.MLA@leg.bc.ca<br />

250-479-4154<br />

Hon. Grace Lore<br />

MLA, VICTORIA -BEACON HILL<br />

Grace.Lore.MLA@leg.bc.ca<br />

250-952-4211<br />

Hon. Murray Rankin<br />

MLA, OAK BAY–GORDON HEAD<br />

Murray.Rankin.MLA@leg.bc.ca<br />

250-472-8528<br />

<strong><strong>Vol</strong>unteer</strong> <strong>Matters</strong> <strong>2023</strong> 31


@volunteervictoria.bc.ca<br />

@volvicbc<br />

@volunteervictoria<br />

www.volunteervictoria.bc.ca<br />

Tel:250.386.2269<br />

E-Mail: E-Mail: volvic@volunteervictoria.bc.ca

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!