It was an honour on Saturday to be asked to present the Governor General's Decoration for Bravery to Nick Rivers, a volunteer with Arrowsmith Search and Rescue for his role in saving the life of a man who fell into the frigid, fast-flowing waters of Little Qualicum River in 2020. The medal is awarded for "acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances". Nick said that he felt very privileged to be honoured to receive the medal but gave credit to his fellow SAR volunteers. “It was a total team effort”, he said as he received a standing ovation from the overflowing crowd at the Berwick theatre in Parksville. We are so fortunate to have an all-volunteer professional rescue organization trained and equipped for search and rescue on almost all terrain and in all weather conditions in our community.
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!