The Heart of Service: Where Volunteers Make All the Difference
Over 70 dedicated volunteers form the backbone of The Salvation Army’s community support in Parksville, a number that grows significantly during the Christmas season. Their impact reaches far beyond numbers, touching lives in ways that bring their supervisor to tears.
Linda Cherewyk, Family Services and Food Bank Supervisor at The Salvation Army Mount Arrowsmith, becomes emotional when speaking about her volunteers. “It’s because they give,” she says, wiping away tears. “They have left an indelible mark on our community for what they do, and they ask nothing in return. Nothing. Just to give more.”
The need is growing. “In today’s economy, some people can’t afford to volunteer,” Linda explains. “They’re working two jobs, and half of those working two jobs are coming here for support.”
For Duane Mottle, a 61-year-old retiree, volunteering twice weekly has become a calling that creates ripples of change throughout the community. “It’s almost like a win-win. You’re winning for yourself, and you’re winning for the community,” he shares. His approach focuses on dignity and respect. “When people come through our doors, they become family. A lot of people frown on individuals who might come to the soup kitchen, but when they’re here, we try and treat them with respect.” Through his consistent presence, Duane has witnessed how “trust obviously expands and they’re more open to you.”
The impact in Parksville is clear in the numbers:
- 16,200 meals served annually
- 7,300 food bank hampers distributed
- 825 special Christmas hampers delivered
Sandra Osborne knows firsthand the difference this approach makes. As a senior on a fixed income, she’s experienced the challenges many clients face. “I’m on a pension, and every time I think I’m getting my foot up, my pad rent is so high. I pay about $1,000 a month, but only get $1,800 a month to live on,” she shares candidly. “At different food banks, sometimes you don’t get the best empathy. But here, they don’t look down on you. They’re always very nice.” Her experience goes beyond just food bank visits. “They’ve helped a lot. Not just with the food bank, but if I’ve ever had a crisis or problems, Salvation Army is always there.”
“At different food banks, sometimes you don’t get the best empathy. But here, they don’t look down on you. They’re always very nice.” Her experience goes beyond just food bank visits. “They’ve helped a lot. Not just with the food bank, but if I’ve ever had a crisis or problems, Salvation Army is always there.”
Major Sergii Kachanov, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army, shares, “Without our volunteers, we simply couldn’t serve our community. They are essential to everything we do here.”
But Linda’s requirements for new volunteers? Simple. “To work here, you have to be able to belly laugh three times and wear a smile. That’s the only advice you need.”
Be Part of Something Bigger
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, we recognize that each volunteer creates waves of hope that reach far beyond their initial point of service. Whether you can give a few hours or make a regular commitment, your time transforms lives – including your own.
Ready to Join Our Team of Everyday Heroes?
Visit salvationarmy.ca/volunteer to find volunteer opportunities in your community.
By Sipili Molia