Over 400 community members volunteer their time and talents at Glacier View Lodge each year.
“We are tremendously grateful for the support we receive from so many members of the Comox Valley,” said Liz Friis, director of resident lifestyle & community programs. “Each and every one makes an impact and helps us provide the vibrant living experience we hope to provide our residents.”
Volunteers range from the young children who take part in the Strong Start and Grandbuddies programs, to very capable seniors. Volunteers provide visitation, assistance with swimming, appointments and outings, share their talents as musicians or dancers, help maintain the gardens, provide mealtime support, help residents stay connected to their faith communities or provide pet visitation. A lovely addition this year is the monthly visits from the therapeutic miniature horses from Shamrock Farm.
The Lodge recently invited volunteers for an afternoon tea and celebration of their diverse contributions.
“While we tremendously appreciate every volunteer’s contribution, each year we highlight and celebrate the contribution of an individual and a group,” said Friis. “This year we are pleased to acknowledge the amazing contributions of our Individual Volunteer of the Year, Janet Diederichs.”
Janet visits the Lodge three times a week. She offers assistance at mealtimes, visits residents and has recently added her support to the Auxiliary to Glacier View Lodge.
“Janet is a tremendous help to the residents and is always looking for ways to offer further support,” said Friis.
The Group of the Year recipients are the Shamrock Gumbooters 4H Club members.
“The club has been involved for many years as the hosts of our Easter morning Petting Zoo,” said Friis. “In recent years, the club members, parents and leaders have been supporting the re-development of a garden the residents named the Secret Garden. Out of that grew lovely monthly visits, each with a different theme and activities that the group does with residents. These activities have been supported through the generous support of the First Community Credit Union. We are truly excited to have the youth part of the life at Glacier View Lodge.”