Citizens are encourage to print this image and post it in windows to show appreciation for volunteers.

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

reason to celebrate

Albertans asked to show appreciation for volunteers this week

Apr 19, 2020 | 1:54 PM

With National Volunteer Week on the go April 19-25, the Government of Alberta is asking citizens to celebrate and honour those who give up their time year-round to help around the province.

The province provided $65,000 to Volunteer Alberta to support 77 community celebrations.

Because of the pandemic, alternate plans have been made to mark the seven-day salute which has a theme of “It’s time to applaud this country’s volunteers.”

“Volunteers are at the heart of Alberta communities, supporting recreational, cultural and social programs that enhance our quality of life. In these unprecedented times, they are also the foundation of our COVID-19 pandemic response,” says Leela Aheer, Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women.

“We are grateful for the outpouring of love and acts of kindness from so many volunteers helping their neighbours stay connected and feel supported during this challenging time. Let’s join together to celebrate and thank them during National Volunteer Week and encourage others to explore volunteerism.”

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On social media Sunday, Red Deer-based Volunteer Central also recognized the start of National Volunteer Week.

“Red Deer and area’s volunteers receive a well-deserved round of applause. Please join us as we celebrate volunteers and all they do for our communities, especially during this unprecedented time.”

Ways to celebrate volunteers while physical distancing include:

• Highlight individuals, teams or projects by sharing volunteer stories through video and photos on social media or other platforms.
• Email a volunteer with a personalized thank you or provide gift cards for takeout as a token of recognition.
• Write a reference letter for a volunteer who is applying for a job, internship or school program.
• Nominate an outstanding volunteer for an award such as Stars of Alberta to formally recognize their efforts.

Nominations for the 2020 Stars of Alberta Volunteer Recognition Program will open later this spring.

Provincial data shows that the province has more than 26,400 non-profit organizations which rely on more than 1.6 million Albertans each year to provide volunteer shifts.

The estimated value of the 262 million volunteer hours is $5.6 billion.