Since I was 13 years old, I have always volunteered at least a few hours per week. I started to volunteer because I was motivated to help others and could not afford to donate money (this was true throughout my student years and my first few years of working — by then I was hooked on volunteering & now both donate when I can & volunteer). I volunteered for various organizations: I taught swimming as a teenager to both blind and disabled children and adults. I continued volunteering with deaf youth (my mother was very hard of hearing) and through the CNIB, recording “talking book” textbooks for many years. Performing with many different choirs, with a band and with several friends, I have entertained (I hope!) many shut-ins, seniors and hospital residents over the years. I am currently a volunteer member of the Board of Directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Simcoe.
When I moved to South Simcoe, I was looking for a volunteer placement when I was approached to join the Board of Big Brothers Big Sisters. It is the perfect volunteer work for me! I get more out of this work than I put in. I have the pleasure of seeing the joy that can be brought into lives through mentoring — both the mentors and the children! There are in-school-mentors that volunteer for one hour per week, “Bigs” that average a few hours per week, OPP officers and helpers at fundraising events that volunteer a few hours every few months, and Board members that volunteer many hours per week. All get hooked, as have I, by the difference we all make in the lives of children. The rewards are great, not only by helping children and their families, but through meeting a lot of wonderful people in our community. I have met lots of my neighbours at fundraising events, as fellow volunteers, and through contacting other community groups and companies who are also helping our community. We have a wonderful community that I am getting to know through volunteering! Judy Click her to return to homepage of |  |
 |