Youth Volunteers Make a Difference in our Communities

Jason Waterland’s volunteer work at The Salvation Army in Woodstock, Ontario started out as a way to fulfill his required high school volunteer hours, but then the 17-year-old decided he really enjoyed the experience and has since gone above and beyond.

Jason’s volunteer work started at the Thrift Store where he helped unpack boxes and organized shelves. Jason worked there for a summer and then when the Christmas season approached, he decided to support The Christmas Kettle Campaign by volunteering as an attendant at a Kettle.

Jason has been volunteering at Christmas Kettles every year and has accumulated over 300 volunteer hours.  His mother was the Christmas Kettle coordinator for two years and his father was the coordinator last year, so Jason has also helped them organize volunteers for the campaign. “I was the mastermind behind the complex spreadsheet,” he laughed.

“I like volunteering because I know I am helping somebody and it makes me feel good inside,” said Jason. I would recommend it to other youths, as it’s a fun place to volunteer and it’s very welcoming.”

Jason has also been very helpful at the church, helping with the refreshments cart after Sunday worship services.  He also gave his time during the church’s Alpha program.

“Jason would look after the kids portion and be my tech guru.  No fuss, he just gets on with the task in a godly and workman like manner,” said Robbie Donaldson, former Community Ministries Coordinator in Woodstock.

Salvation army Major Naomi Dalley says Jason has a caring and compassionate heart.

“Jason is an eager young man who is always willing to help.  He definitely has the gift of service and actively looks for ways to be involved and is committed to the Mission of The Army. He is an asset to our ministry unit and we feel grateful for the opportunity to watch him flourish as a volunteer and as a believer.”

To volunteer with The Salvation Army please visit https://salvationarmy.ca/volunteer/ to register.