Volunteer Opportunities

Outstanding individual volunteers or groups of volunteers who have taken a lead role in developing solutions to social challenges in Whitecourt. This category is open to individuals of any age and can include not-for-profit organizations or registered charities.  Examples of Community Leader:

• Andrew, a Whitecourt resident, saw soccer as a way of giving local children the opportunity to have fun and learn together. By getting local businesses to chip in support, he was able to rent the indoor facility and purchase equipment to start an indoor soccer league for youth in the community.
• Sophia, a retired social worker, volunteers with the local high school supporting youth at risk. She organizes workshops in the high school, provides advice and shares best practices with other volunteers at the school.
• Blueberry Centre is a small not-for-profit organization made up of volunteers from a local church. The group provides shelter, meals, clothing, and life skill training to homeless men.

Longstanding Achievement:

Individuals who have volunteered for at least 25 years and have inspired other volunteers, led volunteer groups or made other exceptional achievements through volunteering. Examples of Lifestanding Achievement:

• When he was 35 years old, Arthur started a shelter when a friend confided in him about the years of abuse she suffered as a child. The shelter, which accommodates up to 16 children, provides short-term services to boys and girls between 10 and 17 years old who have suffered abuse. Now 58 years old, Arthur continues to run the shelter and works tirelessly to educate others in his community about how they can protect children from abuse.
• 30 years ago, Paulette volunteered at a local thrift store where she observed parents struggling to meet the needs of their families at Christmas time. Paulette gathered a group friends and began asking local business for donations. With donations she, and the friends purchased food and gifts for families in need. She gathered more volunteers to help wrap all the gifts and deliver to the families. The Christmas Hamper program still helps families in need today.

Companies that demonstrate social responsibility in their practices, including promoting and facilitating volunteerism locally, regionally, and nationally, as well as for-profit or not-for-profit social enterprises dedicated to creating social, cultural, or environmental benefits. Examples of Corporate Leaders:

• KR Vintage Clothing Boutique loans suits to low income women to wear to job interviews. It also offers sessions to help women advance their careers.
• Recycling Inc. is a local business that has a program to hire and train people with disabilities.
• Jim’s Pipeline Co gives employees 3 days a year to volunteer with local organizations. The company encourages employees to donate to the local Food Bank with a Christmas Food Bank Drive.

Volunteers that go the extra mile for the cause. Whether they stay late to help or work the extra shift when needed, this individual goes above and beyond the volunteer position.  Examples of The Extra Miler:

• Navrin volunteers every Tuesday at the local Boys & Girls Club mentoring youth. Very often when he’s there, the group will have an employee or volunteer unable to come in for their shift. He will often work longer to assist staff with other duties like chaperoning youth or gathering supplies – just doing whatever is needed.
• Asha is always willing to volunteer at the local soup kitchen, even with little notice. She is very flexible and will go wherever help is needed. Sometimes she even brings in a friend to help too.

Youth between the ages of 13 and 20 who have demonstrated leadership and helped to build a stronger community.
Examples of Outstanding Youth Volunteer:

• Amelia has volunteered with the local Snow Star program, helping the same senior clear snow for the past 2 years.
• Zola volunteered at the local library as a homework tutor every Thursday after school. She continues to be a homework tutor even now, as a young adult.
• Liam, a recent graduate of a sound technician program, donates his time and talent with the local performing arts society at special events.