April is Global Volunteer Month, and the third week of the month is National Volunteer Week. The theme for 2023 is "Volunteering Weaves Us Together" which recognizes the individual and collective actions that help create a strong, interconnected and vibrant community.
In honour of this important week, Community Care is delighted to share a poem written by one of our previous volunteers, Russ Sanders. He volunteered for over 15 years, finding the work very rewarding. His poem reflects on his connection with clients and recognizes the varied roles volunteers have at Community Care.
By sharing their time, talent and energy, volunteers strengthen the fabric of our community. Thank you to Russ and to all of the dedicated volunteers across the City and County of Peterborough!
We Are Here to Help
by Russ Sanders (previous volunteer with Community Care)
The lady was waiting and ready,
I arrived precisely at two,
Her walk was a bit unsteady,
So I buckled her seat belt too.
Her doctor’s office was not too far,
We chatted along the way,
I made her feel comfortable in my car,
After all, I was an important part of her day.
I escorted her up the stairs,
Her arm locked in mine,
I sat at one of the visiting room chairs,
Her appointment no doubt would take time.
On the way home she asked
If we could stop at the grocery store,
Just a simple task
But that is what I was there for.
She placed a few items in the cart
As I walked with her side by side,
Then we left the food mart,
Back to the car and another short ride.
Safely home and groceries put away
I smiled and turned to go,
She thanked me for having a good day,
I was pleased, that was good to know.
I declined the extra bill she placed in my hand,
She wanted to pay more than our small fee,
“Why not,” she questioned, “I don’t understand?”
“Well,” I replied, “We are a non profit agency.”
We have people in our office answering your calls,
Drivers who take you where you want to be,
An appointment, a visit or even the malls,
There are hundreds of us you see.
No one goes hungry with Meals on Wheels,
Friendly visitors stop by to chat,
A number of handymen heed your appeals,
And are capable to fix this and that.
Clinics including blood pressure and feet,
Special distress personnel,
People who help keep your house neat,
And phone callers who make sure you are well.
There are others who help in many ways,
Such as tax forms and all it entails,
We have fundraising garage sales and tag days,
Picnics, Diners’ Club and scrumptious bake sales.
There are women who cook and some who bake
And men who do maintenance chores,
All working quietly for your sake
But the gratification is ours.
I hope I have made you more aware
And explained some of our services to you,
We are volunteers with Community Care,
Simply put, that is what we do.
