Volunteers are the strength behind many organizations in our community and that strength certainly is shown in the success of ElderCollege Delta.
Established in 2003, ElderCollege Delta is a not-for-profit society comprised of volunteers who provide opportunities for lifelong learning and social engagement for those in the 50-plus age group.
Events are informative, interactive, and affordable in an environment that is safe and secure.
Gail Nicholas, Sally Norcott and Paulette Tattersall are just three of the organizations dedicated volunteers.
“I’ve done volunteer work my whole life. I’m retired now and interested in education and attended a lot of the classes,” said Nicholas. “I have been with ElderCollege for about five years and work on programs, communications and look after the volunteers. There are eight of them who have been assisting us in various positions when it comes to the programs.”
She said when some of her other volunteer positions with Delta Victim Services, Hospice and Guiding concluded, she was looking for an avenue to continue to give back.
“I just wanted to put my time into this,” she said. “I really believe in keeping your mind sharp and assisting with people over 50.”
Tattersall said there are 30-plus volunteers who make up the board, handle programs, presenters and the ElderCollege Singers who perform throughout the community.
Tattersall has volunteered with ElderCollege for 16 years.
“I was an educator in the public school system and as I was nearing an early retirement. A good friend who was involved with ElderCollege at that time, and had just retired as well, she gave me a little flack for about a year and then said, when are you going to get on board with ElderCollege,” recalled Tattersall. “To me it was a natural fit. I enjoyed some of the administration work and took on a number of different roles, including the vice president and then went onto be the chair of the board.
“Since then I have stayed very much involved with the programs committee and helping wherever I’m needed.”
She says volunteering with ElderCollege is like being a part of a family.
“It’s hard to imagine sometimes not being a part of it,” she said.
Norcott has been volunteering with ElderCollege for 19 years.
“Paulette is being modest – she does so much for the organization,” added Norcott. “I help put together the two semesters with her and it is a big job. “It also helps that we have a board that is very passionate and really believes in what ElderCollege does.”
ElderCollege Delta is always looking for more volunteers.
Whatever your passion, talent or interest, they welcome your involvement. If you would like to get involved with ElderCollege Delta in any capacity, email: [email protected] or leave a message at 604-943-0262.
You can also find out more about the organization at: eldercollegedelta.wildapricot.org.
