Next week (April 19-25) is National Volunteer Week, a time to recognize those who give of themselves to improve the quality of life in the community, the city, and the world at large. Volunteerism becomes apparent in a myriad of forms, from those who affiliate themselves with non-profit organizations to those who just see fit to serve quietly by helping out a neighbour, friend, or stranger in need. There are people who choose to work with children or the elderly, some with animals, some who choose the environment, but the list of causes is endless.
If you have been thinking about volunteering somewhere, the most important thing to remember is a good fit. You have to enjoy yourself in the environment you choose, as your commitment is counted upon, and you are needed to keep the wheels turning.
I know many people around TMR who volunteer countless hours a week. In fact, I have one friend who eagerly ventures out weekly to an animal rescue organization, where for three hours she changes cat litter boxes, her passion for the beautiful and unfortunately abandoned creatures overriding the normal unpleasantries of the task.
There is a quote (author unknown) that is often found on volunteering websites: “Volunteers are not paid not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless!” To all you priceless volunteers...may the beauty and goodness you give out be returned to you tenfold...a big thank you from yours truly, who happens to be a former volunteer manager!
On Saturday, May 2, start your day with a healthy walk for a great cause! The Town of Mount Royal Volunteer Centre will be holding its 5th annual Walk-a-Town, a 5km trek (there is also a 1km route) through TMR to raise funds for the Centre, which for nine years has assisted the elderly and vulnerable citizens of our community.
The registration fee is 10$ per person and 20$ per family, which includes your ticket to a BBQ and gives eligibility to win one of many door prizes. Some participants raise extra funds by taking up a collection from friends and neighbours, or just bring them along for that more the merrier feeling. It’s always a blast to take the walk with so many familiar faces that we don’t get to see often enough.
I’ll be there, so be sure to come and say hello! The event begins at 10am and departs from the Recreation Centre (60 Roosevelt Avenue). For additional information or to get your registration form, call Suzette McMaster Clement at 514 341-1927, or Paule Dupont at 514 731-5800. With so much soccer action out on the recreation centre field, players and their families are invited to the BBQ after their practice, at 20$ per family.
Now, to transgress from those who volunteer, to entertainment you can catch for free! Maybe an opportunity to take someone who doesn’t get out much for an evening of culture? Marianopolis College (4873 Westmount Avenue) invites you to a week of ArtsFest.
Theatre: A decidedly modern adaptation of Sophocles' Antigone. The newly crowned king of Thebes must decide the fate of his niece, Antigone. By burying her rebel brother, she defied city law and faces death by stoning. Should the king uphold the law in the politically fragile post-war environment or should he yield to rumours that the people support Antigone? (April 20-22, 7:30pm, Auditorium)
Reading: Mark SaFranko, playwright, actor and author of four highly acclaimed novels, over 50 short stories and winner of the Frank O'Conner Prize, as well as the runner up for the Pushcart Prize. (April 21, 12:45 to 2:15pm, Amphitheatre)
Poet’s café: Students read and perform their creative writing. (April 23, 12:45 to 2:15pm, Amphitheatre)
Dirty Laundry Cabaret: Faculty, staff and alumni show off their creative prowess. An art exhibition, readings, music and good conversation are all on the agenda for this casual event. (April 23, 5:30 to 7:30pm, Arts Studio A-404)
ArtsFest Concert. The College's Art Deco Auditorium is the place to be as some of the Professional Music Program's most talented students and graduates offer up an evening of classical music. (April 24, 7:30pm, Auditorium)
Info: marianopolis.edu/artsfest, marianopolis.edu/artsfestconcert or 514 931-8792.
