Things would not get done without them. They are the lifeblood of every community. They are unsung heroes.

Who are they???………..they are volunteers of course!

They are the people who usually have busy lives but always make time to do more. They are the smiling faces who are always in the thick of things when community stuff needs doing.

Every town has their leaders who come up with the plans, these are very important in the community as they are the brains and muscle who make things happen. However, when it comes to actually getting the job done, the workers who accomplish the actual “hands on” action, it is the volunteers who step up to the plate.

Last week’s Spirit award brought Lori Martine to receive the thanks of the community. This lady, in addition to being a beloved teacher is tireless in working to spread her love of music to the students of Oliver. She is there when school productions are being staged, she has the patience to get those young voices to learn the songs and put on highly enjoyable performances.

Lori is also there to lead her bell choir in delightful sounds which enchant all listeners. This old fashioned form of musical entertainment is now enjoying a comback and is entertaining to both young and old.

The late Jennifer Mapplebeck also made a big impact in our town both in the arts club and the theatre, she was recently honoured by a memorial bench at Quail’s Nest.

So many people who have made such huge differences in our community,

Dot Cranston has been a non stop volunteer in all sorts of community events, serving on numerous committies over the years. The list of hard workers in our community could fill pages but many of these unsung heroes prefer to remain anonimous. They just plod along, always there when needed for either emergency events or helping out at the many community events in our town.

Most of them would deny being “heroes” leaving this special title to our First Responders , who truly are heroes. However, our town could not operate without the hundreds of volunteers who are always there to make visitors welcome to events, to hand out refreshments to race participants and to do the hundred and one jobs that would not get done without the hard work of these unpaid workers.

If you are new to town, what better way to meet your neighbours than helping out at local events. Before long, you will feel accepted and a real part of the community. Volunteers have lots of fun while they are helping others.

What can yoiu do to get involved, just ask. You can help slower readers to improve their skills, sit with a sick person while their caregiver has a long needed break. Sunnybank Ladies Auxiliary is always looking for new members to help out at the seniors’ home. There are always jobs to be done at the Tourism Office, go in and see Rhoda, she will welcome you wilth open arms.
If you truly want to be a part of this community, don’t wait to be asked, get out there and help, you will be amazed at the fun and comradery that exists when you are helping others.