On the 3rd Wednesday of the month (known as cheque issue or “welfare Wednesday”, we have low turnout for participants. Starting in January 2011, program co-ordinator, Tiffany Telford & Executive Director Caroline MacGillivray decided to change that Wednesday into Volunteer Education 101.
“During the first session in January, our board walked in to see Lisa Dahling – who brings her massage chair down to offer services to our participants – teaching our volunteers & participants some relaxation massage techniques,” MacGillivray recalls. “It was great to see everyone connecting while developing different skill sets – volunteers and participants.”
“Everyone had a fantastic time. It solved the core issue which was to open or not to open on Cheque Issue. The numbers are low but we feel it is important to have somewhere for the participants to go. Some organizations are not open on Cheque Issue which does not encourage particpants to stay clean and sober.
It also helped us find a way to make sure we have enough volunteers for the times we do get more participants. We want to be able to find opportunities to reward them for coming in not just when they are in need. What we are doing is building a community through our three streams of programming – makeovers, wellness, and life skill development. Thanks to over 400 volunteers we are able to provide programming 3 to 4 days per week.”
This week had a variety of workshop leaders including:
Dr. Melissa Carr, Active Life Health Clinic spoke to our volunteers & participants about the benefits of acupuncture and different pressure points.
Anne Whitmore from Divafish Communications answered questions and offered guidance on goal setting.
Cory Thompson, trainer for Dermalogica set up a Skin Care Bar and taught his engaged audience of participants & volunteers the value of taking 10 minutes per day to take care of their skin. “I have never felt my skin feel so soft,” said one participant enthusiastically.
Laura Fairfield, one of our Sun Run walk/run team leaders spoke about our upcoming campaign & able fitness goal setting.
When asked about the future of this series, MacGillivray replies,”I am excited about having a forum for volunteers, supporters & participants to share their skills and knowledge. I hope that some day in the near future, we have some of the participants doing some of the presentations too.”
