Earlier this month, I was pleased to drop by to thank the many organizations in oceanside that are supporting this year's Brant Festival. They contribute to the Brant Festival which for the first year since its inception in 2007, is organized and facilitated by the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region. The festival connects the entire community with the spectacular migratory return of Brant Geese to our shores on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. Great to touch base on my visit with representatives of North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre, BC Parks Foundation, Hamilton Wetlands and Forest Preservation Society and local activist, student Teegan Walshe.
Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon in Parksville
Thanks to SOS Chair Paul Ruffell, Executive Director Susana Newton and the board, staff and volunteers for inviting me to attend their annual volunteer luncheon in Parksville. My office works hard with SOS to help get seniors the benefits to which they are entitled. Susanna told us: "Since last June MP Gord Johns office and the SOS have helped seniors in need receive $130,000 in pension benefits owed to them." The society of Organized Services is a volunteer-based non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the needs and improving the lives of Oceanside residents. It was established in 1968 and its thrift shop draws thousands of customers from all over Vancouver Island and beyond each month. The revenues from the Shop along with community fundraising and government support flow to important community programs and services. Its more than 200 volunteers contribute their time and labour which would cost more than 1$ million annually if SOS was a for-profit enterprise. If you can volunteer for the success of our community, whether it's just one hour or several hours every week/month, give SOS a call at 250-248-2093 ext. 230 or email [email protected]. They would love to have you as a member of the family!