Salvation Army Honours Volunteers

by Salvation Army
Categories: Feature
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National Volunteer Week, April 10-16, pays tribute to the millions of Canadian volunteers who donate their time and energy. The Salvation Army’s service delivery is enhanced by the work of volunteers. In 2010, approximately 147,000 volunteers gave more than 1.45 million man hours to the work of The Salvation Army.

People like René have turned their compassion into action. René, a man in his fifties, lives in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce in Montreal. Every day on his way to work, he passes by The Salvation Army’s Montclair Residence. One day, he decided to go into the building.

Since 1978, this seniors’ residence has served autonomous and semi-autonomous adults, striving to improve their quality of life. The building has 51 rooms of five varying sizes. The largest can accommodate a couple.

René wanted to help the elderly because he felt the community gave them insufficient attention and support. He also wanted others to benefit from his artistic talents.

After meeting with the administrative coordinator of the Montclair Residence, René began the first of many volunteer activities with the residents. He loves to play the piano. In spite of some initial apprehension, he decided to start with that.

“My anxiety quickly disappeared when I saw their faces light up with joy,” says René. “I was surprised to see how much music raised their morale. The elderly are delighted to receive some attention. Some don’t see their families very often. I do my best to help them forget their situations, even if only for a few minutes.”

Since his first piano concert, René has returned to the residence every month. He knows his audience now. Residents are eager for group activities like his. “We are always happy to welcome volunteers, whether for singing or reading workshops,” says Vicky Steward, administrative coordinator. “We are open to the ideas of anyone who wants to get involved. The Salvation Army is very grateful to the volunteers for the work they accomplish.”

How Can I Volunteer?

The Salvation Army has long been associated with helping the poor, forgotten, and lost of society. Last year, more than 1.6 million people were helped by The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda.

Anyone can volunteer. For a list of the kind of opportunities available, and a chance to make a difference, click here.