We love our volunteers
Of all the things we relish, however, nothing quite compares to the heartfelt connections we have observed between local students and our volunteers.
We’re a grassroots organization deeply grateful for the support we’ve received over the years. Of all the things we relish, however, nothing quite compares to the heartfelt connections we have observed between local students and our volunteers. These relationships, born of chance encounters, fill our work with vitality and meaning. Witnessing a spirited 13-year-old strike up a friendship with a chess enthusiast in his 80s epitomizes the essence of community cohesion. It’s exactly what we are here for.
As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week, it’s important to recognize the profound impact of volunteerism. This is the era of quiet quitting, where workers are drawing bold lines between work and life. Despite the worry and consternation that this trend has triggered, we can’t help but wonder if in releasing the pressures of work we are collectively allowing ourselves to give our energy to the things we care about.
On our end, we’re witnessing a resurgence of community engagement. In the wake of a global pandemic and increasing socio-political divisiveness, there’s a growing desire to connect with others. Our volunteers teach us just how true this is. They are leaning in and listening up. They guide our students through tough homework and any nagging woes that happen to be keeping them from it.
At Phelps, our volunteers represent diverse backgrounds, spanning ages 15 to 86, and hailing from various professions. Some are retired individuals while others are hardat-work students. Their collective expertise is impressive. Kristy Pyle, our Volunteer Coordinator, polls our volunteers regularly to learn more about what exactly makes them tick. She organized an event at the Colbycurtis Museum this past weekend to offer them thanks in the form of a warm and hearty brunch.
What do they want out of this experience, she recently asked. Not gifts, not better resumés but over half admitted that they are on a quest for heartfelt hoorays. In other words, they show up to our homework sessions because they want to feel good and to celebrate life. Beyond our little piece of the Townships, we know that there is an army of volunteers out there in our midst. They are giving to the various causes that are dear to their very own hearts. This is your week, volunteers. We cherish every thing about you but especially your tireless capacity to care about the world around you.thank you for that. You inspire us, you lift us up and you teach us what it means to live a life of meaning.
Phelps Helps is a community-led non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children, teens and young adults in Stanstead, Quebec and its surrounding areas. Through a range of free, tailored programs and initiatives, Phelps Helps supports educational achievement, careers, youth development and more. Its focus on collaboration and community engagement ensures lasting, positive change for a brighter future. For more information or to volunteer, please email us at info@ phelpshelps.ca, visit our website www.phelpshelps.ca or call us on 819-704-0799.