Oftentimes, we as Red Deerians attend numerous events or functions on small and large scales, but we rarely think about what goes into putting that particular event on. Whether it be a sporting event, a charity golf tournament or a gala, most times volunteers are involved to not only plan the festivities, but to make sure the event runs without a hitch.

As this week is National Volunteer Week, it is all the more reason to recognize these outstanding citizens who help shape our community each and every day.

National Volunteer Week runs through until April 12. The theme of Volunteer Week is ‘Random Acts of Recognition’. A local launch of the campaign was held in Red Deer on Monday and a number of organizations throughout the City are set to be recognized on each day this week.

Volunteers can be found throughout the City lending a helping hand in a variety of capacities from visiting seniors in nursing homes and lodges, to driving meals to those in need via Meals on Wheels, to others who make dinner for people at the homeless shelter and many more who sit on a variety of community boards, just to name a few.

Taking a look back at some major events that have been held in the City including the Scotties Tournament of Hearts, The Brier, and the Olympic torch relay events, to the more recent Tour of Alberta, volunteers have been heavily relied on to ensure the success of those events.

As Red Deer heads towards possibly being awarded the 2019 Canada Winter Games, of course more volunteers will be needed to not only help plan those events but to help when the Games ultimately come to the City as well.

Volunteers are the pulse of any community and Red Deer is no exception. Without them many things wouldn’t be possible. Imagine a nursing home or hospital without volunteers. They provide comfort and friendship to help brighten someone’s day. Or imagine a charity event without volunteers – we may not have those types of events without them.

Red Deer has always had a wonderful volunteer-base, but there is always room for more as the need continues to grow. There are numerous opportunities for individuals to get involved as volunteers. Countless community organizations rely on the support of volunteers to help ensure their operations run smoothly.

If you are interested in volunteering, check out www.volunteercentral.ca for a number of ways to get involved and help make this already great community even better.