One good thing leads to another good thing

Article for July 2025

South Okanagan Similkameen Community Connections Volunteer Centre

Prepared by Laura Turnbull

Board Chairperson

A few weeks ago, a group of 11 of us gathered to set up for a free clothing exchange at one of the churches in Penticton. We unloaded a truck full of bags of clothing, reloaded 3 more trucks with boxes and bags of clothing and then off loaded them and then arranged and set up the clothing on tables according to gender and approximate size. The saying “many hands make light work” was certainly true. What struck me was the dedication of these 11 men, women, and young people and their willingness to give their time to a cause they believe in.

While working side by side I learned of a person who was so overwhelmed by life

circumstances that they could not cope with regular tasks and responsibilities around their home. As a result of this conversation a yard work bee was arranged for a few days later 7 willing volunteers descended on their yard and weeded, cleaned up, and brought it back to a yard that they could be proud of.

These are two of many examples of people who gather and share time, energy, and commitment to bring about change for others. That is what volunteerism is all about! I joined the South Okanagan Similkameen Community Connections Volunteer Centre in 2012 because I believed in the work they were doing and loved their Mission Statement.

Having been a volunteer since I was 12 years old, it seemed natural to be part of a

centre that promotes and encourages volunteerism. I cannot remember a time since then that I have not given back to others, my community, and enriched my life by volunteering. If I have piqued an interest in volunteering for you, I invite you to contact the South Okanagan Similkameen Community Connections Volunteer Centre and speak to our Executive Director, Subrina Monteith. She can be reached at: 1-888-576-5661. info@volunteercentre.info or check out the website:http://www.volunteercentre.info.

She would love to hear from you.

Please consider making volunteerism part of your life routine. You won’t regret it!