YORKTON - National Volunteer Week is being marked in Yorkton.
The week “is a time to recognize and thank volunteers in and around Yorkton, in Saskatchewan and in Canada for their time and energy, contributing to causes that benefit our communities,” said Lisa Washington, Manager of Community, Culture and Heritage with the City in a presentation at the regular meeting of Yorkton Council Monday.
This year, during April 24 – 30, it is a celebration of the contributions of Canada’s millions of volunteers: their actions, their understanding, and their genuine concern for the world around them
As background Washington told Council, “Since 1977, Volunteer Canada has collaborated closely with volunteer centres, businesses, non-profit organizations, government departments, and educational institutions to promote and broaden volunteering. Their programs, research, training, resources, and national initiatives provide leadership on issues and trends in Canada’s volunteer landscape.”
As in the past the week has a specific focus.
“The theme this year, “Volunteering is Empathy in Action”, affirms the strong connection between volunteerism and empathy. This profoundly human connection is at the heart of healthier individuals and stronger communities,” offered Washington.
“Volunteering helps us develop empathy, to see the world through the eyes of others. Empathy is a quality where people can relate to others and build awareness around different experiences. Volunteering connects people in ideas and actions and helps create bonds forged in common goals and aspirations. It connects people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences, expanding our views. It builds our capacity to work collectively and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive society. Volunteering, putting empathy into action, builds communities where people feel happier, healthier, and more welcome – creating a stronger, more connected city, province and country. The empathy, compassion and generosity of volunteers creates connected communities and builds a stronger Yorkton, a stronger Province and, a stronger Canada.”
In addition, National Volunteer Week is a time to celebrate and thank Canada’s 24 million volunteers.
“Locally, volunteers in Yorkton mentor our children, support those feeling isolated, beautify our green spaces, and fundraise for our charitable organizations. Volunteers locally have stepped up during the COVID-19 pandemic to support families, friends, neighbours, and strangers, people standing up to systemic racism, and people sharing insights on how to create a more just and equitable society. Yorkton’s volunteers are individuals, families, workers, retirees, community members of all ages and backgrounds. Numerous sport, culture, recreation, health and social justice organizations in Yorkton rely on volunteers,” said Washington.
“We ask our residents to stop and reflect on the contributions of our community’s volunteers and volunteer organizations and thank them for their time, energy and commitment to the betterment of Yorkton.
“From formal and informal settings, volunteers create caring, collaborative, and compassionate communities, the collective result helping make Yorkton a more desirable place to live, work and play.”
