This year National Volunteer Week is recognized from April 15-21.  During this designated week we celebrate and thank the more than 12 million volunteers across Canada who contribute to their communities in countless ways.

While many volunteers are the first to say that they get more from the experience than they give, those working in the service sector recognize the importance and value of the individuals who give of their time, skills, experience and passion to help others without expecting anything in return.

This year’s theme is “Celebrate the Value of Volunteering – building confidence, competence, connections and community.”  From opportunities to develop new skills, to finding deep and meaningful personal connections, volunteering creates social and economic value for all.

For years, Children’s Aid Societies have benefitted from the assistance of volunteers; individuals who have historically played an essential role in child welfare across the province.  As a volunteer with a Children’s Aid Society you may be involved with driving children to school or to appointments, offering guidance as a mentor, providing your expertise as a member of the Board of Directors or agency committee, or assisting with the planning or execution of a fundraising event.  No matter the role, each volunteer is important and their contributions are vital to helping Societies be successful in the work they do. 

At Highland Shores Children’s Aid, which serves communities within Hastings, Northumberland and Prince Edward counties, 67 individuals donated their time as either board or committee members or volunteer drivers in fiscal 2017-18.  The volunteer drivers logged over 619,000 kms and devoted close to 12,000 hours serving children, youth and families.  “We are so fortunate at Highland Shores Children’s Aid to be able to count on volunteers to assist us in our work.  Their expertise and enthusiasm is vital to our agency and we thank them for their commitment to the children, youth and families we serve”, said Mark Kartusch, Executive Director of Highland Shores Children’s Aid. 

Highland Shores currently needs volunteer drivers particularly for the Belleville area.  To find out more, call 800-267-0570, ext. 2600.