Volunteers come from all walks of life, ages and experiences. They share a common desire to make a difference in their communities and in their lives by freely giving of their time and expertise.
Canada is beginning to experience an emerging trend in employer-supported volunteerism. Having employees involved in voluntary activities sends a message to their neighbours that the business sector is concerned about community issues. With their support, businesses are building up the overall health of their social environment. In turn, a better business climate is established and the well-being of employees and customers increases. Supporting employees who are in leadership roles in volunteer projects increases the visibility of their business, thereby strengthening employee morale and the pride employees have in the company they work for.
While Squamish recognized and honoured Volunteers Week last week, I realized that despite the paycheque, all seven of us sitting on Council were really volunteers at heart. Despite the politics, we all have a strong desire to make a difference in our community.
During the past few months, I have expanded my volunteer interests by helping form the Squamish Historical Society and joining the Loggers Sports Association.
As a councillor, the more I learn about Squamish, the more I realize the roots of our community were planted by volunteers. For example, did you know that the swimming pool behind Howe Sound Secondary School, the Brennan Park soccer fields, and our trails were constructed entirely by volunteers? In fact, in 1944, 14 volunteers formed the Squamish Credit Union because no banks were available in our community at the time.
It's this aspect of Squamish history based on the charitable volunteer spirit that inspired me to get involved with the formation of the Historical Society and to re-establish the Bed Races on the Loggers Sports weekend.
There is nothing quite like getting your feet wet. Although I have always been an involved resident of the community whether as an active member of a service group or an employee of community-based organization. To date, I have discovered that political life certainly helps you get in tune with the community.
To conclude my first column as councillor, I would like to encourage all of you not only to continue but also to increase your volunteer efforts in our community. I promise that the more you get involved, the more enjoyment you will get out of it.
