A special community volunteer acknowledgement, recognizing volunteers in the area for their hard work and dedication was hosted during National Volunteer Week on April 17 at the Preeceville Club 60.
The event was hosted by the Preeceville and District Heritage Museum.
Agnes Murrin was the mistress of ceremonies who welcomed everyone to the volunteer appreciation.
"All volunteers matter. You make a difference and your generosity has a profound and lasting impact on Preeceville,” said Murrin. "Your wiliness to share both your time and your talent by volunteering with our many organizations and groups says a lot about each of you. Your willingness to give selflessly to help others speaks of both our strengths and quality of your character," she said.
“When you volunteer, you are making a commitment to share that most precious of resources, your time to make life better for those in need. While we know that you choose to volunteer, selflessly and without expectation of being recognized, today we wish in a small way to do that. We want to let you know how much your dedication is appreciated and try to ensure that everyone in Preeceville is grateful to each of you. Whether you are a long-term volunteer or have just gotten involved, regardless of how many hours you choose to give, it's important for you to know that what you do makes a difference,” she stated.
Maureen Johnson was recognized for her volunteering. Johnson has been a volunteer for many years, giving of her time to volunteer on many boards.
Stacey Strykowski, Town of Preeceville councillor, recited a brief summary on Johnson's achievements.
“Maureen has spent many years on the Preeceville Economic Development Committee which has helped shape the community into what it is today. She was a major organizer with the town participating in the Communities in Bloom which resulted in 4 out of 5 bloom status.
“She has volunteered for other town activities such as the pumpkin contest, which is a fun way for people to showcase their gardening abilities. This event also promoted shop locally. She is a very reliable and faithful member of all boards that she served on. Maureen is the member that one can depend on to attend meetings and special functions. She is a strong member on the library board, helping with fundraising efforts and she has the passion to keep the library operational in the community. She is a special person who gives selflessly to everything that she is part of,” said Strykowski.
Strykowski spoke further on the importance of volunteering.
"Volunteers are worth their weight in gold as they share their time and talents to make our community a better place to live," she said. "Too often the actions of our volunteers go unnoticed. The Town of Preeceville is working on changing that. The Economic Development committee is sponsoring a monthly recognition of volunteers. We want to acknowledge the commitment and dedication of our volunteers year-round. Monthly, we will be recognizing a nominated volunteer in out community for their dedication and hard work in the community," said Strykowski.
