It is time to sing the praises of people who manage volunteers. Nov. 5 marked International Volunteer Manager’s Day and Kelowna has a network of individuals who thrive on promoting volunteerism.

Who are they? Why is volunteering such a passion? What energizes them?

As the director of Emergency Social Services, Beryl Itani is the behind-the-scenes dynamo when a forest fire puts people on alert and evacuations result. “Seeing people come out at 2 a.m. to help others in need captures the care, compassion and professionalism of volunteers,” says Beryl. No volunteer arrives without a hug or leaves without a hug.

A new volunteer recently brought muffins as an unexpected treat for staff and volunteers. “It is so encouraging the way volunteers support us and enrich the services we provide at the Kelowna Women’s Shelter,” notes Karen Leboe. Volunteers bring fresh energy, perspective and excellent new ideas. “It is heartwarming when a woman who had been a client returns to volunteer,” adds Karen, manager of administration and volunteers.

Lynne Larente voluntarily answered phone calls before being hired as the Crisis Line coordinator. Now she supervises trained volunteers and organizes shifts 24-hours, seven days a week. “Our volunteers work from their hearts, listening to those in need and empowering them to find their own solutions,” says Lynne.

“I’d like everyone to know what an outstanding job our director of volunteers and donor relations, Kelly Paley, is doing while juggling a business as well as a family,” explains Brian Moore, executive director. “Outstanding seems too small a descriptor,” adds Brian. “Kelly is doing a ‘spectacular job’ helping us transition from concept to reality at the Kelowna Fire Museum and Education Centre.”

Does your organization have a person who manages volunteers? Do you want to brag about them in an upcoming column? Send me an e-mail at informkelowna@kcr.ca.

Dawn Wilkinson is the coordinator for the Community Information and Volunteer Centre.

250-763-8008, ext 24

informkelowna@kcr.ca

www.kcr.ca