Senior volunteers
The East Prince Seniors Initiative is gearing up to launch a recognition program for Island seniors who volunteer. Organizations can nominate their volunteers to be selected to go on a tour of Eastern P.E.I.
Without the volunteer work of Island seniors, how many community organizations or groups would face closure, Gloria Schurman wondered. “If you go to an event, and look around, a lot of people are like me, a senior. There are hundreds volunteering in the East Prince and Prince County areas, and for the seniors themselves, it’s incredibly rewarding. Schurman, the executive director of the East Prince Seniors Initiative, is gearing up to launch a recognition program for Island seniors where organizations can nominate their volunteer to be selected for a tour of Eastern P.E.I. “We’ve launched a call to organizations and businesses who have senior volunteers to nominate them for the tour. Each person nominated will get a certificate of recognition as a small ‘thank you’ from EPSI. Of those nominated, 40 people will be selected to come on the tour in September. We’ve got lots of events planned and a nice lunch set.” While on the tour, Schurman hopes to have the chance to get a video filmed of why the seniors volunteer and what it means to them. “By making this video, we’re hoping that it will be shown at schools or to youth groups with the idea of instilling the drive to volunteer from a young age.” Shelley Lively is a volunteer with EPSI. “I’m a senior helping seniors,” she said shortly after helping a participant in the EPSI computer club. The club meets on a regular basis for seniors who want to learn more about using computers and other forms of technology. “Volunteering is very satisfying. I really enjoy it and I love meeting new people. “There’s a real pleasure there. But volunteering also ensures that I keep up my own skills so that I can help others.” To nominate a senior 9aged 60 years or older) volunteer for the EPSI recognition program, email EPSIthankyou@gmail.com, mail or drop it off to the office at 57 Central Street, Summerside, PE, C1N 3K9. Deadline for the nominations is Aug. 31. For more information contact Schurman at 902-888-2177.