If you are looking for a great way to show gratitude and give back to our wonderful community, why not try volunteering?
Sometimes people get deterred when they hear that word, and automatically think it means picking up garbage, donating money, or some other mundane activity. But in reality volunteering is much, much more.
Volunteering is something anyone can do and it can be attached to a number of unique interests. If you’ve been thinking of donating some of your time to lend a helping hand and show your gratitude for the community, but aren’t sure where to go to find out about local volunteer opportunities, there are a number of volunteer initiatives in Kelowna to point you in the right direction.
Volinspire, a community engagement initiative that brings volunteers, charities and businesses together in one place, is where volunteer-hungry individuals can look to seek out opportunities.
Jeff Hoffart, operations manager with Volinspire, said the platform helps organizations and movements like the Gratitude Project to inform people on how to get involved.
"Volunteering is a form of gratitude,” Hoffart explained. “It's a way for people to give back and a way for people to help others who may not be as fortunate.”
According to Hoffart, the benefits to volunteering are vast. Not only do you give back, but you also can grow, develop skills, gain empathy, learn about the community and meet new people.
"Most people volunteer to help others, to make a difference and bring about social change, but there are such a variety of benefits,” he said. “Regardless of if you're a student, an employee or a retiree, everyone can get something very beneficial out of giving their time.”
From food bank volunteers, making beds at the Gospel Mission, to even singing on Christmas at the Parkinsons Recreation Centre and helping out with local events, there are so many incredible opportunities just waiting for you.
To get involved, visit the Gratitude Project profile on Volinspire or check out their website.
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