National Volunteer Week is observed in April and is a time for the Canadian Red Cross - one of the leading non-profit organizations in Canada - to honour the contributions made by volunteers every day.
More than 45,000 Canadians were helped directly by volunteers last year, and these dedicated individuals continue to make an impactful difference in the lives of those affected by emergencies and disasters.
Volunteers come from a variety of different backgrounds, but the confidence and knowledge that they bring to Red Cross programs enhance the quality of care that people are able to receive.
Together, volunteers can make a significant impact on communities at home and abroad. Two volunteers make major differences in the lives of Canadians in need through their work with the Red Cross' transportation services.
Rick's story
Since 2010, Rick Allen - a retired papermaker who currently works as a volunteer with the Red Cross' Senior Transportation Program in Dryden, Ontario - has driven more than 31,000 kilometres in service of others.
When he isn't driving long distances to help people through the program, Rick enjoys fishing and exploring the outdoors.
The program in Dryden, Ontario, is different from many others because individuals are transported to medical appointments that could be far away, not just local.
"My wife doesn't understand how I can do these long road trips, because I don't usually say much at home," said Rick, who, in spite of being a man of few words, ensures the long road trips are filled with conversation and music.
In addition, Rick isn't just known for treating clients well - when he returns the Red Cross' vehicle, he makes sure to wash the car and change the oil.
Marian's story
For more than 46 years, Marian Holt has worked as a volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross, and as a result, her experiences have been varied. In recognition of her valuable contributions, she was recently awarded the Queen's Jubilee Medal
Marian served as the president of Scarborough Branch Council for 15 years, but the 84-year-old primarily volunteered with the transportation services program in Toronto.
"[What I enjoy most are] the interesting encounters I get to have with people in the community and in the branch," said Marian. "My volunteer work has helped keep me young."
How you can help
Dedicated volunteers with the Canadian Red Cross help make a difference in the lives of men and women affected by a range of challenging situations. From those in need of assistance in the wake of an emergency to older adults who may need help getting to important doctor's appointments and accomplishing important errands.
The commitment that volunteers make every day to the humanitarian mission of the Canadian Red Cross ensures that people receive the resources that they need to overcome adversity and gain essential skills in the process.
While becoming a volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross can be a great way to put your knowledge and passion for helping others to use and also make a difference in your community, there are other options available to you if you want to show your support for the Red Cross today.
By choosing to donate online or at a local Red Cross office, you can ensure that people affected by a variety of emergency situations have access to all of the tools that they'll need to tackle the setbacks that can arise. In addition, your generous contribution enables the Canadian Red Cross to continue its charitable work domestically and around the world.