Volunteers are the lifeblood of every community, especially for rural parts of our province.
It is their passion, spirit and acts of citizenship that make after-school programs, community fundraisers, service club projects and church events, to name a few, possible.
Becoming a volunteer requires no special skills or experience, just a willingness to spend some quality time making the world a better place.
The news of Twillingate no longer being able to offer a Girl Guide program to the youth in the area is cause for alarm.
There aren’t enough volunteers to continue that program? That’s not what the region witnessed on Aug. 6 when a community playground had to be built. Hundreds turned out to take part and volunteer throughout the months prior to ‘Build Day’ to make the project possible.
The news of the Girl Guides no longer being offered in the area calls for a deeper commitment on the part of families and the community to ensure this treasured group is not lost forever for generations to come.
Volunteering so a child can benefit from guidance and life skills is a rewarding experience. Having a positive adult influence in the life of a child can’t be overestimated. The relationship developed between a youth and adult, through such organizations as the Girl Guides, can steer young minds in the right direction in life. And while children gain perspective and confidence, volunteers and mentors enjoy the satisfaction of knowing they have made a difference.
Sandra Whiteway of Lewisporte is a testament to that. A recent recipient of the provincial Volunteer Recognition Award, Ms. Whiteway has volunteered with Girl Guides for 26 years, and counting.
Ms. Whiteway is a prime example of a volunteer who rolls up her sleeves and gives back to others in seemingly small ways, but if it weren’t for volunteers like her our communities wouldn’t be as good as they are. It is because of those volunteers and their legacy that the torch will be carried by the next generation, who will provide inspiration, dedication and selfless giving to their communities – wherever they may reside.
There is no greater gift then to contribute knowledge, time, help and a caring attitude towards others. We are fortunate to have a rich history and unwavering spirit in our community volunteers; this was evident on Sept. 11, 2001 when ‘the world came to town’.
This is why it’s unbelievable there are no volunteers to continue the Girl Guides program in Twillingate. Complete strangers were taken care of in our midst some 10 years ago (Twillingate and area included), and there should be as much care and attention given to our community programs.
Here’s to hoping a good few will step up to the plate and start changing lives. After all, children are always in need of role models.
- Pam Snow
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