‘It’s a pretty good feeling’: Mayor credits volunteers for keeping things happening in Port Colborne

Social media campaign during National Volunteer Week recognizes the people who play a major role in keeping the city’s events and programs running.

Volunteers are the driving force behind many events and programs in Port Colborne, city officials say, as the community celebrates National Volunteer Week.

From Sunday to Saturday this week, the city will recognize local volunteers through its social media channels, leading up to the city’s annual volunteer appreciation banquet. The campaign highlights the people who give their time and energy to support the community, said a media release from Port Colborne.

Mayor Bill Steele in an interview said volunteers play a major role in keeping the city’s events and programs running.

“Quite frankly, the majority of events that happen in Port Colborne don’t happen without our 500-plus volunteers,” he said.

Volunteers support a wide range of programs across the city, including the Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum, the public library and the Roselawn Centre. One popular attraction, Arabella’s Tea Room, is fully run by volunteers and draws visitors from across the region.

Volunteers are also a key part of large community events such as the annual Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival, which welcomed more than 65,000 visitors last year and relies on over 200 volunteers.

Steele said without volunteers many of these events would not be possible.

“We couldn’t do them without our volunteers,” he said, adding that hiring paid staff to run such programs would increase costs and could force the city to scale back some events.

This year’s National Volunteer Week theme, “Ignite Volunteerism,” focuses on encouraging more people to get involved while also recognizing those who have been volunteering for years.

“It’s about getting new people involved but also keeping the flame going for those who have been volunteering for many years,” Steele said.

The mayor said volunteers also help improve the experience for visitors by offering guidance and support at events. During Canal Days, for example, volunteer ambassadors help people find activities and navigate the city.

City officials say even a small amount of time can make a difference. Residents can volunteer for a few hours or take part in larger events throughout the year.

Steele said volunteering is also about giving back to the community.

“Give something back, it’s a pretty good feeling at the end of the day when you help others,” he said.

People interested in volunteering can contact Port Colborne city hall to learn more about opportunities available across different programs and events. For more information or to get involved, visit: volunteers@portcolborne.ca

By Prateek Ahuja, The Standard