Volunteers are the heartbeat of our communities! And we are taking this National Volunteer Week opportunity to send a vociferous shout out to all volunteers as your commitment creates caring, kind, compassionate and thriving communities.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week and the theme for 2023, Volunteering Weaves us Together, we stay on the Island with Lead Well award recipient Jennifer Ritchie. Jennifer is a MAC (Member Advice Centre) Supervisor in the Island Savings a division of First West Credit Union region, and a local, living in Duncan her entire life. But that is all about to change, as she and her family are about to embark on a cross-country move to Manitoba rather imminently.
Jennifer proudly wears her volunteer hat with her son Shane’s hockey team, initially helping when he signed up to play. “When I realized how much it can cost in a year to be part of the Rep teams, I felt it important to help so more kids could have the opportunity and afford to play,” shared Jennifer.
Along with being the team safety/medic, she also volunteers her time to help raise funds to reduce the fees and additional travel expenses for the players and their families. From bottle drives to raffle tickets and 50/50 draws at hockey games, Jennifer is on board.
The payoff? “Watching the kids play the sport they love,” says Jennifer. “They make so many friends and learn so many important life skills like teamwork, dedication and hard work. It feels so good to watch my son with his friends and see the true friendships he has made.”
Sports are integral to community, and we thank you for leading well in yours, Jennifer.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week and the theme for 2023, Volunteering Weaves us Together, we stay on the Island with Lead Well award recipient Jennifer Ritchie. Jennifer is a MAC (Member Advice Centre) Supervisor in the Island Savings a division of First West Credit Union region, and a local, living in Duncan her entire life. But that is all about to change, as she and her family are about to embark on a cross-country move to Manitoba rather imminently.
Jennifer proudly wears her volunteer hat with her son Shane’s hockey team, initially helping when he signed up to play. “When I realized how much it can cost in a year to be part of the Rep teams, I felt it important to help so more kids could have the opportunity and afford to play,” shared Jennifer.
Along with being the team safety/medic, she also volunteers her time to help raise funds to reduce the fees and additional travel expenses for the players and their families. From bottle drives to raffle tickets and 50/50 draws at hockey games, Jennifer is on board.
The payoff? “Watching the kids play the sport they love,” says Jennifer. “They make so many friends and learn so many important life skills like teamwork, dedication and hard work. It feels so good to watch my son with his friends and see the true friendships he has made.”
Sports are integral to community, and we thank you for leading well in yours, Jennifer.