April 12, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Local organization sees 170% increase since beginning of 2023
With National Volunteer Week just around the corner, organizations like The North Grove are reporting volunteer numbers are finally returning to pre-pandemic levels.
Volunteering at the community hub in Dartmouth North is up 170% in the first three months of 2023. Almost 2,000 hours of time have already been logged – that’s already 70% of last year’s total volunteer hours.
“This is going to be a great year for volunteering. Volunteers are essential to everything we do and we’re thrilled to see them back,” says Wendy Fraser, Executive Director of The North Grove.
Like many organizations across Canada, The North Grove is getting ready to shine a spotlight on its volunteers during National Volunteer Week (April 16-22).
The North Grove hosts more than 100 volunteers, who are involved in every aspect of the organization’s programming, from cooking programs to playgroups, community meals to parenting programs, tax clinics and sitting on the organization’s Board of Directors.
“Our program is unique in that many of the people who volunteer also participate in our programs,” said Catherine Morley, The North Grove’s Volunteer Coordinator. “There is a sense of ownership that comes from people who use the services also playing a key role in program delivery.”
The North Grove volunteers work in many areas of the organization, including program support, food preparation, serving meals, helping out on the farm, working in the child development and much more.
“Volunteering at The North Grove isn’t transactional, it’s about relationships and connection. The support and care volunteers have, not only for the community but for each other, shines through every shift,” said Morley.
After two years of modified programming, this week marks the return to all in-person community meals at The North Grove. The increase in volunteer support has been essential to making this possible.
Troy Pallo has volunteered at The North Grove for the past five years and is very excited to see the volunteer program returning to full capacity.
“During the lockdowns when I couldn’t go there, I felt like there was something missing. It’s exciting to have everyone back,” says Pallo. “The people that go there are wonderful. It’s just like family.”
About The North Grove The North Grove is a dynamic community hub, located in the heart of Dartmouth North, that offers programs and services for people to learn and connect through family support, food, and friendship. Learn more at www.thenorthgrove.ca. ### Media Contact Ellen Riopelle Communications Specialist 902-464-8234 ext. 1003 eriopelle@thenorthgrove.ca