INNISFAIL – Being a volunteer means more than just giving your time to something or someone.
It also means giving back to the community.
That’s why Innisfail’s Kim Emerson and her nine-year-old son Cameron became volunteers.
“It’s just a way to help out and care for our community,” said Emerson.
The Innisfail family has volunteered this winter as snow angels, as part of the Neighbours Helping Neighbours Program.
They joined the volunteer program in November after reading a story about it in the Innisfail Province.
“There’s a growing need for (volunteers),” said Emerson, noting those who may need help throughout the winter.
“It’s in high demand around here because of the growing population of seniors.”
Her son Cameron is happy to do his part too.
“It’s fun and it’s nice to help people,” he said.
Emerson said it’s a way to spend some quality time with her son helping others, and pointed out the lessons it teaches him and other children in the community.
“It’s nice to show our youngsters how important it is to care for our vulnerable citizens in the town,” she said. “We are capable. We shovel our own property, so it’s nothing to go down the block and shovel someone else’s as well.
“I think it’s really important to keep kids concerned and invested in the community.”
As first-time volunteers, Emerson said they are learning about volunteers’ important contributions and the difference they make in a community, with the work they do and the time they give.
“It’s huge. I think it’s very important to just let people know that it’s maybe a half hour out of their day, once a week or twice a week,” she said. “It’s really not a big deal (for us) to get out and do it but it’s very, very helpful for those that benefit.”
Emerson said volunteering has helped her and her son stay connected to the community, meet new people and befriend those they’re helping.
“We (shovel snow) for two properties and they both have expressed gratitude for the help that we give them,” said Emerson.
She and her son want to continue to volunteer throughout the year and encourage other families and children to do their part for their community.
“It’s something that is so minor for us, but it’s so major for someone who might be struggling to keep their independence or keep their property (maintained).”
