By Tricia Gueulette
At Beacon Community Services we are very lucky to have around 550 incredible volunteers working across our organization in various capacities from helping in thrift stores, leading art programs at our assisted living sites, being a support to those who are homeless, helping at SHOAL Community Centre, and contributing to so many other parts of Beacon. National Volunteer Week, led by Volunteer Canada, is from April 27th to May 3rd and this year’s theme is “Volunteers Make Waves”, emphasizing the collective impact of volunteer efforts. There is no greater collective impact, from my perspective than the building of stronger communities that volunteerism facilitates.
Consider these sobering statistics from recent British Columbia surveys: over a third (38%) of our neighbours feel isolated, and nearly half (46%) grapple with loneliness. This disconnection from the wider community leaves many without a sense of belonging or clear identity. Yet, amidst this challenge lies a powerful solution: volunteerism. It stands as a vital force in weaving a stronger community fabric, a connection increasingly essential for our mental, social, and even physical health. The evidence is clear: a strong sense of community belonging acts as a shield against stress, anxiety, and depression. Feeling connected and supported empowers us to navigate life’s complexities while contributing to a community fills our lives with profound meaning. The impact of volunteerism on building vibrant communities is immediate and tangible, directly addressing local needs and bridging critical service gaps, as our own Beacon volunteers demonstrate daily. Their dedication not only enriches individual lives but also nurtures a shared sense of responsibility and ownership within our community. As people unite in pursuit of common goals, they forge bonds and build social capital – the very bedrock upon which strong communities are built.
The benefits of volunteerism extend far beyond the immediate task at hand, creating a powerful ripple effect. For the individual volunteer, the act of giving can lead to the development of new skills, the expansion of their social network, and a profound boost in personal well-being and sense of purpose. These individual benefits, in turn, contribute to a more engaged and resourceful citizenry. When individuals feel connected and empowered, they are more likely to be active participants in their community, advocating for positive change and contributing to its overall vitality.
On a collective level, communities enriched by volunteerism possess an enhanced capacity to tackle social issues, from poverty and homelessness to environmental degradation and social isolation. The combined efforts of dedicated volunteers can amplify the impact of organizations like Beacon and even spark new initiatives to address unmet needs. Furthermore, a strong volunteer base often translates to enhanced local amenities, vibrant cultural scenes, and a greater sense of resilience when faced with challenges. Communities that rally together in times of crisis, supported by a network of volunteers, demonstrate an inherent strength and ability to overcome adversity.
In the past year (our 50th!), our volunteers have helped Beacon achieve remarkable milestones. Together, we have:
- Housed more than 135 individuals through a mix of dementia care homes, assisted living, and subsidized and affordable housing;
- Supported 175 youths through Beacon’s Homelessness Prevention and Shelter Services including helping 48 youths move into their own space on Meares Street directly from homelessness;
- Helped 118 individuals find work through our employment services right here on the peninsula;
- Served 17,740 meals through the More than Meals program;
- Provided 250 licensed childcare spaces throughout Greater Victoria;
- Welcomed 963 new members at the SHOAL Centre;
- Facilitated 2,433 medical drives and cleaned 2,935 client homes through Beacon’s Better at Home program.
These achievements are a testament to the dedication, compassion, and generosity of spirit that define our volunteers. Volunteerism is not merely a charitable act; it is the very lifeblood of thriving communities. It is the thread that binds individuals together, fostering connection, resilience, and a shared sense of purpose. By actively engaging in volunteerism and supporting the efforts of those who give their time, we are not just helping others – we are actively weaving the fabric of a stronger, more vibrant community for all.
All of us at Beacon would like to thank our volunteers who give so much of their time, skills, energy, compassion, and care. Over half of our volunteers have been with us for more than five years. We could not operate Beacon without you!