With National Volunteer Week just around the corner, the Town of Cochrane will be kicking things off with an event to thank the tireless volunteers who keep this town running.
“What would Cochrane look like without volunteers?” remarked Brenda Dennis, volunteer services and community programmer with Family and Community Support Services (FCSS).
“There would be no Cochrane and Area Humane Society, no food bank, no victim services. These are the organizations that make our community special.”
Volunteer Appreciation is set to run April 5 at the Cochrane Movie House. Events will get underway at 9 a.m.
A little appreciation goes a long way — just ask Lawson Parker, who was named Youth of the Year at last year’s Community Awards.
“There is so much effort being put into this town — there are so many unsung heroes,” said the 17-year-old. “It’s great to celebrate that effort.”
Parker, a Grade 12 student at Cochrane High School, said his parents have always encouraged him to play an active role in the community.
Currently, the high school senior has been keeping busy with three major involvements: as a member of the CHS Sustainable Development Committee, as part of the Mayor’s Youth Council, and he’s just wrapping up a Junior Achievement initiative where he helped provide 45 Guatemalan children with clean water for a year.
“It’s neat experience to be pointed out, but I (volunteer) for the sake of being involved,” said Parker.
“It’s important not to lose focus of what volunteering means.”
Volunteers, like Parker, will have a chance to be celebrated for their hard work at the upcoming appreciation event.
Hosted by FCSS and a variety of community partners, the appreciation event will serve as the launch for National Volunteer Week, which runs April 6-12. Attendees will have the choice of three movies: The Monuments Men, Saving Mr. Banks and, for families, Frozen 3D.
“There are so many people in our community who give up themselves and their time to help organizations,” said Dennis. “This is a chance to recognize these volunteers.”
Complimentary tickets for the appreciation event can be picked up at FCSS on Second Avenue West.
The event is open to all volunteers and their families.
Anyone interested in learning about volunteer opportunities in Cochrane is encouraged to contact FCSS.
