Folks wishing to make a difference and get involved as a volunteer this fall and winter need look no further than the Vernon Volunteer Fair.
More than 25 local non-profit groups will be at the Schubert Centre from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, for the annual fair created by NexusBC.
“The Vernon Volunteer Fair is a fantastic way to match volunteers who are wanting to make a difference with organizations that make our community a great place to live,” said Lee Brinkman, event organizer for NexusBC Community Resource Centre, home to the Volunteer Vernon Program that helps volunteers find positions and organizations find volunteers.
“This year’s Volunteer Fair is exciting for us as we are celebrating the return of our community volunteer program,” added Brinkman. “Volunteer Vernon lost funding six years ago, but is back now thanks to support from the United Way.”
Volunteering can have amazing impact and reach, and there are many different opportunities. People can help foster a love of literacy in children through the North Okanagan Literacy Society and Niteo Africa Society, or help foster a love of science as a program assistant at the Okanagan Science Centre. People can choose to empower those with disabilities as a coach for Special Olympics BC, or support local farmers and those struggling to afford fresh vegetables and fruit through the Good Food Box Society.
The need for volunteers is great, and volunteering is a way to gain skills while creating positive change. People can receive training through the North Okanagan Hospice Society to ensure their residents and families receive the best care. They can also get advanced training to be the "eyes on the street" as a volunteer for the RCMP detachment.
Volunteerism has enriched the community in many ways. Without the Friends of Okanagan Rail, there would be no rail trail. Without the North Okanagan Optimist Club, there wouldn't be Unplug and Play boxes at local parks for kids and families.
“There is an opportunity for everyone to help out, even if you only have a couple hours a week, or are looking for project-based jobs. The need is great," Brinkman said.
The fair is free to attend. For more information, visit nexusbc.ca or phone 250-545-0585.
