19 · OAKVILLE BEAVER Saturday, April 18, 2009 National Volunteer Week April 19 - 25, 2009 VOLUNTEERS GROW COMMUNITY Cheers to Volunteers! For the past four years, Volunteer Halton's National Volunteer Week Committee has held a random draw to honor outstanding volunteers nominated by local agencies to receive a gift and recognition for their tremendous hard work. With an overwhelming response this year, it is clear that Oakvillians are dedicated to enriching the lives of those in need. Introducing this years selected volunteers... Volunteer Jochen `Joe' Hoffmann is happy that he has the opportunity to give back to the hospital and community that has treated him and his family so well. Joe is a volunteer with Halton Health Care in Out Patient Physiotherapy and the Pre-Operative care. Whether he is preparing ice or heat packs for the physiotherapists, or preparing patients for their hip or knee replacement surgeries, Joe enjoys the social aspect of his volunteering. Joe has been a part of Halton Health Care for the past two years, and suggests that anyone who is thinking of volunteering with any organization to get out there and do it. "Volunteers are an essential part of our community, and we need more of them." Mentoring a child who is struggling with her everyday homework, Kristina Petrovik tries to influence good study habits, time management and other important skills that will help her student succeed in the school environment. Having been volunteering with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Halton program `The Club' for two year, Kristina finds it very rewarding to be in a positive relationship between mentor and student. "I enjoy seeing the differences and improvements I help make in the child's life, and it feels really great to give back to my community." As the Volunteer Manager of the Kerr Street Ministries Food Bank, John Raynor is involved with sorting, stocking, packaging, shelving, distributing food as well as managing a group of volunteers that come in to assist with the food bank. John feels that volunteering is one of the biggest joys available to us today and because of that he has been volunteering his time with Kerr Street Ministries for nine years. John enjoys helping people meet their immediate needs. "I enjoy helping them forget about their concerns for a while when we offer them a smile and a friendly listening ear." The Dwyer family has been volunteering their time with Food For Life for the past four years. Volunteering gives the Dwyer a bit of balance and perspective that is some- The Dwyer family receives a 2009 "Cheers to Volunteers" Award for their dedication to Food for Life. The award was presented by Volunteer Halton and Halton Region. (From left to right) Michael Dwyer, Cathy Dwyer, Patrick Dwyer, Matt Dwyer, Tanja Schlabitz (Halton Region) and Ann Coburn (Volunteer Halton). times lost when locked into the same old daily routine. "For our family, it has been quite an eye opener to see how many people are struggling right here in our own community amidst the things we take for granted." There are many very worthwhile charities, but the Dwyer's like the fact that Food For Life is a local charity helping the community that they live in. "When we deliver food on the weekend, we actually meet many of the recipients and they are so thankful and appreciative." Volunteer Halton proudly thanks and honours these exceptional people and their dedication to volunteer week in the community. HMC Salutes its VOLUNTEERS No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of another. Thank you. For more information about volunteer opportunities at Halton Multicultural Council call THANK YOU LINKS2CARE VOLUNTEERS Your time and talents are greatly appreciated! Call us to become a valued volunteer! Georgetown: 905-873-6502 Acton: 519-853-3310 Oakville: 905-878-6403 Sanaz Taghavi 905 842 2486 ext.240 or staghavi@halton-multicultural.org Thank you Acclaim Health Volunteers! To all our volunteers, Thank You. PRESENTS Thank you to our 856 dedicated volunteers for making a positive difference in the lives of hundreds of individuals in need every year. Interested in volunteering, contact us today! 905-827-8800 ext. 2317 volunteering@acclaimhealth.ca www.acclaimhealth.ca Alzheimer Services Community Support Services Corporate Wellness Nursing Personal Support Services Your commitment & dedication is appreciated. With your help, we have given back over $1,800,000 to the community in over $1,800,000 to the community in the past 16 years. the past 17 years. If your group is looking for ways to raise funds, please contact us at 905-847-7975 www.oakvillefestival.com