Resolve to get involved this new year

Are you one of the British Columbians who contributes more than 100 million hours toward volunteering for countless causes each year? If you are, way to go!

If you’re not a volunteer, then maybe this is the year to get out there and give it a try. Sometimes it can be tricky to find the right fit because of your work schedule or family obligations, but here in the Comox Valley there are plenty of chances to get involved and lend a hand.

Not only will your community benefit when you help out with worthwhile projects and organizations that need it, but you’ll get rewarded, too.

Here are a few good reasons to get involved with volunteering, as well as some ideas about where to start.

The upside of volunteering . . . not that there’s a downside!

If you’re new to the Valley, there’s no better way to meet people and make connections in the community than by volunteering. Not only that, volunteerism has been shown to improve overall health, especially outdoor activities that involve physical movement, and it can be helpful in battling depression and decreasing social anxiety. You can learn new skills, add to the local economy, keep physically and mentally fit, and enjoy a sense of empowerment and fulfillment.

What’s not to love about all that?

Volunteering in the Valley

No matter where in the Comox Valley you live, there are regional, provincial, national and international organizations that would love to make the most of your skills and knowledge.

Get involved and get active with Special Needs Recreation and Courtenay Recreation.  They happily welcome volunteers for their numerous programs. Like the snow? The Vancouver Island Society for Adaptive Snowsports appreciate skiers who can help folks facing challenges hit the slopes. But if you’re more comfortable in the garden, get in touch with the people at the Gardens on Anderton. 

If you like animals, there are several options. Comox Valley Therapeutic Riding works well for people interested in helping others and working with horses. Some physical ability is required, but experience isn’t necessary. If you prefer smaller animals, maybe the Valley SPCA and KittyCat Pals would be a good fit. The nice people at MARS Wildlife Rescue Centre always like having help with special events and public education – and they provide the training!

For those who aren’t sure they can make a regular commitment, the summer festivals are a good place to begin. Nautical Days, the Filberg Festival and MusicFest all rely on volunteers to help keep things running smoothly.

And any of the numerous associations that hold runs and walks typically can always use marshals along the routes, so you may want to get in touch with an organization that you feel a connection to and give them your contact info.

Like all communities, those that make up the Comox Valley have many wonderful events and associations that count on volunteers to succeed – so get out there, get involved and get growing your community.

Questions about any aspects of housing and living in the Comox Valley? Get in touch through my website or my Facebook page. For specific real estate inquiries, please don’t hesitate to give me a call.