Our Volunteer Appreciation Night was held May 20, 2010 at Timber Ridge Golf Club. Approximately 62 volunteers and friends of the Association gathered to accept our "Thank You" for all that they have done for us through the year.
Keynote speaker, Brenda Snider, Manager of Volunteer Services with Volunteer & Information Quinte, spoke to us on how important the volunteer sector is to non-profits such as this agency. The main base for volunteers today is members of the baby boomer generation and as it ages there will be fewer people to call upon to volunteer. Our young people need to be shown and guided into the volunteer sector. Today's volunters need to mentor our young people, show them how rewarding volunteering is. The younger generation is our future.
Councillor Bob Wannamaker spoke to us about his many opportunities for volunteering in the Quinte area and how it has changed over the years.
The presentation of awards followed with every volunteer receiving a certificate of recognition from Lou Rinaldi, MPP for Quinte-Northumberland, and a small gift of appreciation from Community Living Quinte West.
The Exceptional Student of the Year Award was presented to Mike Sagriff. Recipients Amy Kelly and Ashley Ellis were unable to attend. Students are recognized for going beyong the dictates of their placements to enhance the lives of the people we support.
The Youth Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Ryan Thompson for his dedication to CLQW and his commitment to the values and mission of an inclusive community.
The Extra Mile Volunteer Award is given to someone who goes out of their way to have an impact on the life of an individual or group of individuals. There were three recipients this year, Andrew Casey, Rick Flanigan, and Joan Loveland.
The Volunteer of the Year Award is presented to someone who has worked over a period of time to support the goals and efforts of CLQW. Roger Edworthy and Kim Dall were this year's recipients.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude and appreciation for all that our volunteers do for us. We would not be able to do all that we do without you. Our success is your success. Thank you!
Toni Kirby, Volunteer Co-ordinator