The National Volunteer Week theme for 2021, The Value of One, The Power of Many, reflects on the awe-inspiring acts of kindness by millions of individuals AND the magic that happens when we work together towards a common purpose. This past year, we have seen people supporting family, friends, neighbours, and strangers, people standing up to systemic racism, and people sharing insights on how to create a more just and equitable society. We recognize the value of the caring and compassion that each one has shown another, and we recognize the power of people, organizations, and sectors working together.
The power of people working together can bring about monumental changes. We have seen people work together on legislative changes related to impaired driving, same sex marriage, and assisted dying.
The theme is a nod to our past, a reflection of our present, and a wink to our future. The Value of One, the Power of Many was the theme for National Volunteer Week in 2001, The International Year of Volunteers. It beautifully reflects the individual and collective efforts, we have seen during the pandemic, and it sets the tone for re-imagining the next 20 years as the value of one act and the power of many enables us to thrive together.
At Wavefront Centre, we’re grateful for volunteers who dedicate their time and passion to help our community. We highlight two volunteers who are from our Better at Home program. Learn more about Annette Paul and Ritva McClelland’s volunteer experience at Wavefront Centre!
Annette Paul, Better at Home Volunteer
- How long have you volunteered with Better At Home Program/Wavefront Centre?
I’ve been volunteering for approximately two years with Wavefront Centre.
- Why did you decide to start volunteering / why do you volunteer?
I started volunteering after I retired. I wanted to reach out to a community that I could help now that I have the free time. Give back to areas that require people to help others in need.
- What is your favourite part about volunteering with the community?
Meeting new people and being able to practice in my goal of learning a second language, American Sign Language.
- What have you learned from your time as a volunteer?
I have learned that there is a whole group of people that prior to learning this language I would never been able to communicate with in their native language. They are patient with me and lovely to get to know.
- What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering with Wavefront Centre?
I would say to go for it and feel more contented with your life.
- Is there anything else you want tell us about your experience with Wavefront Centre?
Wavefront Centre is a wonderful organization that works hard to ensure that their volunteers are well informed and valued. I look forward to talking with the staff and clients and feel that everyone at Wavefront Centre truly cares about people and the service they provide and treat the volunteers with respect and understanding.
Ritva McClelland, Better at Home Volunteer
- How long have you volunteered with Better At Home Program/Wavefront Centre?
I don’t remember exactly but I’d say 5 years more or less…
- Why did you decide to start volunteering / why do you volunteer?
I wanted to help. The reason I volunteer is to give back and also want to contribute my time.
- What is your favourite part about volunteering with the community?
Seeing the clients happy.
- What have you learned from your time as a volunteer?
To be patient and listen to them.
- What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering with Wavefront Centre?
I would say to go for it and feel more contented with your life.
- Is there anything else you want tell us about your experience with Wavefront Centre?
My experience in volunteering with Wavefront Centre is being grateful that there are Better at Home services especially for the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing people in B.C.