Kamloops celebrates community volunteers

Apr 26, 2017 | 12:30 PM

Kamloops is commonly referred to as the Tournament Capital, but it is also considered the volunteer capital. 

This week the men and women who give of their time to better the community are being honoured. 

Volunteers gathered at the Sandman Centre Wednesday to enjoy an appreciation barbecue. It was a part of National Volunteer Week. 

According to City Councillor Tina Lange, there are so many people willing to volunteer in Kamloops that there are often waiting lists to help out with large events. 

“We have more volunteering per capita than any city in the entire country,” Lange said. “People volunteer in Kamloops like it’s their duty. Everybody does it. We never have problems finding volunteers, and that goes for every group in the city.”

The city kicked off volunteer appreciation week by handing out Distinguished Service Awards on Monday. 

Debbie Smith, a board member with Volunteer Kamloops, says community groups will be holding their own events this week to honour their volunteers. 

“It’s just one way of saying a big thank-you for work,” said Smith, “because really, without volunteers what would the community look like?”