We are fortunate to have many dedicated volunteers who help make Colwood a better place!
Here are just a few individuals who were nominated by their colleagues to be recognized during Volunteer Appreciation Week in April 2025.
MEMORABLE MOMENT
During my first time volunteering for the Victoria Marathon, it was a quiet day until we noticed a young girl standing alone near our station. She seemed lost and didn’t know where her parents were. We called it into net control and the police got involved to begin the missing child process. Eventually, after a while, the girl was safely reunited with her family. This experience highlighted that the routine preparations for emergency scenarios that rarely happen can suddenly become crucial.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE IN 3 WORDS
Practical. Educational. Rewarding
HIDDEN SKILLS UNCOVERED
Speaking clearly over the radio has been the most surprising skill. It requires being concise, following protocol, and overcoming “mic fright.” With practice, it becomes more natural.
UNEXPECTED BENEFITS
Our regular radio shifts always come with a few good laughs. The people make it fun, and we’re always looking for more volunteers!
MEMORABLE MOMENT
It's hard to pick just one! Seeing the kids' and parents' reactions to their school art on the gallery walls at our School Shows, setting up the Christmas Show, reconnecting with old friends from Pendray House, and meeting new artists and watching them develop their skills.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE IN 3 WORDS
Connection. Community. Camaraderie.
SURPRISING SKILLS UNCOVERED
I've found it is easier than I thought to talk to people who visit the gallery. They are interested in the art, the artists and our history — it's a pleasure to discuss these topics with them.
UNEXPECTED MOMENT
Being asked to do this feature profile!
Between Coast Collective at Pendray House and the Arts & Culture Colwood Society, Barb has been a dedicated volunteer for 16 years! Thank you, Barb, for your unwavering commitment to our community!
MEMORABLE MOMENT
A colleague and I recently pitched an idea to the Board of Directors and the positive response and excitement about it was overwhelming. It makes us want to knock it out of the park to become a reality to further assist in the effort to get an Arts & Culture Centre built in the West Shore.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE IN 3 WORDS
Fulfilled. Grateful. Amazed.
HIDDEN TALENTS UNCOVERED
I learned how to use Mailchimp which had never been on my radar before.
UNEXPECTED BENEFITS
Seeing and feeling the passion, dedication, and determination of such a small group of people to get an Arts & Culture Centre built. It's inspiring and infectious and drives me even more to help elevate the awareness of the group's mission and values to make this project a reality. The WestShore needs an Arts & Culture Centre and to see it come to fruition and play a small part in the project's success would be a truly humbling experience.
MEMORABLE MOMENT
Celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Friends of Havenwood Park was unforgettable. Reflecting on our achievements and sharing our successes with the Colwood community and fellow restoration enthusiasts felt amazing!
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE IN 3 WORDS
Friendship. Positive Energy.
HIDDEN SKILLS UNCOVERED
I've been learning about public speaking and doing group presentations, which has been challenging but very useful for someone who grew up shy. Additionally, both the presentations and hands-on work have deepened my understanding of our region's ecology, which I find endlessly fascinating.
Judy has dedicated nine years to Friends of Havenwood Park and two years to ReImagine West Shore. Thank you, Judy, for your dedication to continuously make a positive impact
in our community!
MEMORABLE MOMENT
During my first time volunteering for the Victoria Marathon, it was a quiet day until we noticed a young girl standing alone near our station. She seemed lost and didn’t know where her parents were. We called it into net control and the police got involved to begin the missing child process. Eventually, after a while, the girl was safely reunited with her family. This experience highlighted that the routine preparations for emergency scenarios that rarely happen can suddenly become crucial.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE IN 3 WORDS
Practical. Educational. Rewarding
HIDDEN SKILLS UNCOVERED
Speaking clearly over the radio has been the most surprising skill. It requires being concise, following protocol, and overcoming “mic fright.” With practice, it becomes more natural.
UNEXPECTED BENEFITS
Our regular radio shifts always come with a few good laughs. The people make it fun, and we’re always looking for more volunteers!
MEMORABLE MOMENT
The overall appreciation I receive from people when they see me picking litter in the community.
MOST SURPRISING
The importance of taking action without judgement.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE AS DESCRIBED BY PICK COLWOOD VOLUNTEERS
Engaging - Big Impact - Pride - Gratifying - Empowering - Making a difference - Small steps - Purposeful - Inspiring - Engaging