by Anita Benedict
I have attended numerous Municipal Volunteer awards both as Reporter for the former Weekly Press and as East Hants Town Crier over the last 10 plus years. This April, it will be an honour to do so again.
There is always a camaraderie and a buzz in the room as volunteers and their guests enjoyed a fantastic meal prepared by other volunteers and anticipate being called to the podium to receive their certificate. Their guest is ready to capture the moment with their cell phone or camera. The Municipal counselors truly serve the public that night as they don aprons and smilingly deliver plates of deliciousness to each person.
It is always my pleasure as Town Crier to come up with words to inspire, to thank, to
praise. It is usually quite easy, because without these people, our communities would
have less; less sports, less fire departments, less community centres; less events; less
everything. A simple thank you never seems enough for what these volunteers do to build community.
Why do we do it? Why do we spend hours of our time doing for others? It probably isn't in the hope of a nomination whereby we get a free meal and a certificate.
I can't speak for others, but for me it is the satisfaction of seeing someone's face light up, to hear laughter of community getting together, to give others the opportunity to
experience a unique event. It is an opportunity for our youth to gain experience and build confidence.
I have watched youth performing on stage at community theatre go from shy and unsure to confident individuals. They had an opportunity to be a part of something special, to find their unique talent. Kids in sports realize team spirit and in many cases community spirit when the community comes out to cheer them on at home games. Most of these opportunities are provided by volunteers. I am blessed to be considered a “senior” and I can tell you there are a lot of people who make it attractive to be one. There are fellow seniors who volunteer their time to create programs all year round to provide opportunity to have fun, to gather together. With so much talk about improving mental health, this is a vital service for all.
I started volunteering at a young age as an assistant Sunday School teacher, then joined the choir in my local church. I have been part of raising funds for groups, I have been an entertainer, and have given much of my time on boards of various groups. This is not bragging nor do I think I will get into heaven for good acts. When something is successful and you see people in your community happy, it is already a heaven here on Earth.
This year one of those volunteers nominated has been volunteering since she was 17. She has been volunteering for 73 years, and continues to give back to the community in many ways. Amazingly, she had never been nominated for a municipal award. She said she didn’t need it, but I feel it is important for her to be recognized, not only as a thank you, but to inspire others.
Next year, take a good look around your community, who gives so much and asks for so little? Have they been nominated? Tell them thank you today, and honour them when you can.
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