We'd like to introduce you to Larry and Heather, both of whom have been volunteering for more than 30 years!
Larry, who first started volunteering with his son’s hockey team, said the joy of helping his community and seeing the smiles of the people he’s helped is what keeps him coming back to volunteering year after year.
He has been volunteering with the Town of Okotoks Memory Café for three years, and said his experience there has been one of his fondest volunteer memories. He always has a great time making new friendships, sharing a laugh and lending an ear to those who need it.
He encourages people to get involved with volunteering because It’s a great way to meet new people, put a smile on their face, and feel a sense of accomplishment knowing you have helped your community. His advice to new volunteers is to enjoy the experience and have fun!
Heather, who initially began volunteering in her daughter’s classroom and helping first graders learn to read, has also been volunteering at the Memory Café since she first arrived in Okotoks three years ago.
Her fondest memories of volunteering include supporting seniors at the Memory Café, holding a premature baby in need of a cuddle in the NICU, or seeing the children’s faces when they see the Easter bunny at an event. For her, it’s the small gestures that warm your heart and soul.
To those who are contemplating volunteerism, Heather urges you to get involved – she said it’s so much fun, and it’s a great way to meeting caring people and make lifelong friends. Her hope is that she can continue to volunteer for many years to come and have the opportunity to see the smiles it brings.
Thank you for all that you do, Larry and Heather!