Children's Aid Society of Oxford County Thanking Volunteers

Wednesday, 22 April 2020 13:36

It's National Volunteer week and the Children's Aid Society of Oxford County is thanking all of their amazing and compassionate volunteers who help them out every single day.

OXFORD COUNTY - The Children's Aid Society of Oxford County is celebrating their local volunteers during National Volunteer Week.

The CAS wants to highlight the time and compassion that volunteers give to children and families using their services. Interim Executive Director Tina Diamond says the agency is sharing information about how their volunteers make a difference throughout the month on Twitter and Facebook.

“The efforts of our volunteers to support children and youth in situations that may seem out of the ordinary are greatly appreciated. Even the smallest act can make a big difference, such as when volunteers provide a smile and kind words to families who are experiencing challenges and distress."

Director of Service Giselle Lutfallah says volunteers are a huge part of their organization.

“Over the past year, volunteers provided more than a total of eight thousand hours of their time and compassion. These efforts enhance services provided by the Children’s Aid Society of Oxford County, and the Family Violence Counselling Program, removing barriers for service users, and connecting them to their community.”

Five volunteers are being recognized in 2020 for volunteer service. One award for twenty years of volunteer service, two awards for ten years of volunteer service, and two awards for five years of volunteer service will be presented. Linda is a 20 year volunteer Recipient with the Children's Aid Society, she explains why she does it.

“I like meeting someone at the start of their journey and then volunteering with them until they have completed what they need to do; for example, when I drive women to weekly groups through the Family Violence Counselling Program. Giving them encouragement and then seeing them succeed is really rewarding.”

Volunteers assist by providing volunteer transportation, assisting with childcare for adults attending appointments and groups, at community programs such as the Open Door, and with fundraising. In 2019, a shared reading program was introduced, and volunteers work with children who are experiencing learning challenges discover a love of reading.

For more information on how you can help vulnerable children in Oxford County by fostering, volunteering, or making a donation, please call 1-800-250-7010 or visit us at www.casoxford.on.ca.