One of the most important threads in the social fabric of a community is its volunteers.
From April 18 to 24 Canada celebrates National Volunteer Week.
Alberta boasts one of the strongest community of volunteers in the country and sees some of the highest rates of volunteerism in Canada. The province sees about 50 per cent of adults volunteer in their communities, surpassing the Canadian average of 44 per cent.
The theme of this year's National Volunteer Week is, "The value of one, the power of many." The slogan represents the remarkable acts of kindness Canadians across the country have shown during COVID-19 and the magic of working together toward a common goal.
"This past year, we have seen people supporting family, friends, neighbours, and strangers, people standing up to systemic racism, and people sharing insights on how to create a more just and equitable society," said the National Volunteer Week website. "The power of people working together can bring about monumental changes— It beautifully reflects the individual and collective efforts, we have seen during the pandemic, and it sets the tone for re-imagining the next 20 years as the value of one-act and the power of many enables us to thrive together."
National Volunteer Week offers a chance to celebrate those who are driven by a passion to give back to others and help make Cochrane the best community possible.
Cochrane is a community filled with inspiring volunteers, all actively working to help make the community great.
Each volunteer is a golden thread that helps make the community's social tapestry richer.
COVID-19 has heightened the need for volunteers and the important role they play in ensuring no one falls through the cracks when they are going through tough times. When a request for aid goes out these valiant community members are ready to step up and lend a helping hand.
Not only do these people help look after our community's most vulnerable community members, they also help host events that bring us together.
While it is not possible to gather in-person at the moment, many organizations are chomping at the bit to host fun, family-friendly activities in the community.
There is no shortage of volunteer opportunities available in Cochrane.
Volunteering is one of the most rewarding experiences out there— Not only are you helping others while having a positive impact in the community, you are also making meaningful friendships and building valuable connections with other community members along the way.
These connections will be more important than ever as we begin to heal from COVID-19.
Who better to lead us in the social recovery from the pandemic than those who have dedicated their time to building the community up for years.
Each day volunteers are working to make Cochrane the best town possible.
They are the lights that makes our community shine.
