Here’s to All Volunteers!

It’s National Volunteer Week and we would like to take a moment to thank all of the wonderful volunteers who have contributed their precious time to helping those in need.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the many gracious, generous and wonderful volunteers of VHA, both past and present. You inspire us everyday and we really couldn’t do it without you!

Did you know that Canadians contribute 2.1 billion hours in volunteer work a year? That’s equivalent to 1.1 million full-time jobs.

Did you know that 47% of Canadians volunteer? And young Canadians between the ages of 15-24 volunteer more than any other age group at the rate of 58%. That’s awesome!

Here at VHA, our volunteers contributed 1,143 hours of service just in the first quarter (January to March) of 2013. That’s something to be proud of!

They work in areas such as:

• Friendly Visiting
• Mental Health Support – Home Organizer
• Parent and Child Support
• Simple Comforts Driver and more!

By volunteering in these areas of need, our volunteers are visiting isolated seniors in their homes, helping individuals with hoarding tendencies to de-clutter and organize their homes, and they are acting as a resource to families so that they can discover and connect with social supports in their community and make positive changes to their lives.

When we asked our volunteers what they enjoy most about volunteer work, one responded by saying that she learned a new sewing stitch from the senior she was visiting. Another volunteer says she loves babies and that’s why she volunteers with us.

There are many different reasons and benefits for volunteering your time and at VHA we are dedicated to providing an environment where our volunteers are engaged, challenged and rewarded. As well, VHA volunteers have the opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills, gain valuable work experience and support their community, all at the same time.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to work directly with our clients in their homes to make a difference in the lives of those who are vulnerable and in need, join our team of devoted volunteers today!

Sources for Statistics: Canada Sources on Giving, Volunteering and Participating 2010. Images thanks to Oliver Community Arts Council and Salvation Army Canada.

Article written by Denise Gho.

Encouraging Your Elderly Loved One to Stay Social

As people age, staying social and involved in the community becomes even more important and seniors are at a higher risk of suffering from loneliness and isolation. Living alone, retirement, losing loved ones and poor health conditions can all prevent seniors from being social. But studies show people who are social are less likely to suffer from depression, live longer, have less stress and better self esteem.

Here are some ways you can help your elderly loved one get involved in the community. If your loved one is able, encourage him or her to:

• Volunteer. Lots of organizations, especially not-for-profits are always looking for extra help. Volunteering is a great way to get involved and give back to the community.
• Join a club. Take a look at your loved one’s interests and see if you can find a club that caters to their hobbies. Some ideas include a book club, chess club, bridge club, knitting club, etc.
• Visit local senior centers. There are lots of different fun activities that encourage seniors to learn a new skill and connect with one another.
• Check out the library. Look for events going on in the community and different workshops posted at the library. This may also be a good way to find a book club.
• Try out an adult education class. Especially if your loved one likes to learn.
• Exercise. Exercise is an important part of health, so why not try and find a social way to be active? There are a lot of different fitness classes available that are directed at seniors. Some ideas include aqua fit, yoga, or a walking club.
• Get spiritual. Churches, synagogues, temples, etc. are all great places to get involved and meet new people.
• Connect to college/university courses. Taking a class at a local school can help keep your loved one’s mind sharp and get them out of the house and interacting with others.
• Join a support group. If your loved one is struggling with an issue, a support group can help them connect with others facing similar challenges so that they can share their experiences.

The Benefits of Volunteering

It’s National Volunteer Week, which means we’re thanking the 12.5 million volunteers who choose to dedicate their time and talents to their communities. Volunteers make a huge difference in Canada. For example, VHA volunteers give caregivers a much deserved rest, allowing them to take care of themselves and be better able to care for their loved one. Becoming a volunteer not only benefits your community but can also benefit you by:

• Building relationships. Being a volunteer can be a very social experience. You get to meet all sorts of different people, work with others and make new friends.
• Learning new skills. When volunteering you are often exposed to new experiences or asked to do things you might not have done before. You get to learn new things and maybe discover something you really enjoy.
• Boosting your self esteem. Helping others and knowing that you’re making a difference can make you feel good about yourself and brighten your mood.
• Developing hobbies or interests. If you have a hobby or interest that you love, why not volunteer for something that nurtures that hobby? You get to do something you enjoy and help others at the same time.
• Helping your career. Skills that you learn through volunteering can help you at your job. It can even influence employers to hire you since volunteer work shows commitment and dedication.
• Inspiring others. When you volunteer you can inspire those around you to take initiative and make a difference.

VHA is always looking for volunteers! Learn more about our available volunteer opportunities here.