Applauding Board, advisory and committee volunteers this National Volunteer Week
During National Volunteer Week, we are showcasing stories shared by volunteers and Society staff about how volunteers have made a difference for people living with dementia.
Earlier this year, leaders from across sectors came together at the Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s Breakfast to Remember fundraisers in Victoria, Vancouver and for the first time in Kelowna, to support British Columbians affected by dementia. Volunteer committees play a crucial role in making these events a success. Magda Kapp, Development Officer for the Society, says: “Our volunteer committee was instrumental in making the inaugural Kelowna Breakfast to Remember event a success. Committee members helped spread the word through their contacts, helped secure sponsors, sold tables and tickets, picked up door prizes and items for centrepieces, and even painted flowerpots!”
A member of the Kelowna organizing committee, Craig Burns lives with Alzheimer’s disease and also volunteers his time on the Society’s Board of Directors, as well as its B.C. Leadership Group of People Living with Dementia that provides guidance and counsel on all the Society’s activities.
Craig says, “The resources of the Society have helped me and my family in our ‘journey’ with Alzheimer’s disease. I am at the end of my working career and saw some opportunities where I felt I could provide some experience and expertise, and it has been very rewarding personally.”
He explains that the diverse, skilled and vocal nature of the group is key to the B.C. Leadership Group of People Living with Dementia’s success as they provide advice, feedback and direction for the Society staff. “We work well together and accomplish significant tasks for the Society. It’s great to be part of the group!”
Meanwhile, Robert Piasentin and his peers on the Board of Directors bring invaluable insight and dedication to their roles. Robert, who acts as Board Chair, shares his personal connection to the Society: “My father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease a few years before I began volunteering at the Society. I wanted to do more to help others who were going through the same struggles which my family was going through.”
He adds, “By volunteering, the cold, impersonal business world within which I usually operate is opened up into one of love and compassion. When I work with wonderful fellow volunteers and Society staff, my days are brighter and I feel I have contributed to something which is making a real difference in society.”
Every day during National Volunteer Week, we will share our volunteer’s favourite moments, experiences and memories. Keep visiting our website or follow us this week on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to read more and share your own experiences! #NVW2020 #CheersToVolunteers