Yesterday was International Volunteer day, a global celebration of volunteers. To celebrate the special day, here are three feature stories that highlight the important work these important individuals contribute to the District. 

Newcomer Welcome Centre (NWC) Volunteers 

The District's NWC is a resource centre where students new to Canada can find additional support to help them transition into the school system. NWC registers students from over 40 countries, speaking more than 30 languages annually.

Jason, who was once a newcomer himself, has been volunteering with the NWC for the past 2 years and plans on continuing to volunteer in the new year. Part of Jason's role as a Youth Ambassador volunteer at NWC involves educating newcomer youth on Canadian history and life in Vancouver. What Jason loves most about volunteering at the NWC is the fact that he gets to meet new people."I get to meet so many people with different backgrounds who come from so many different parts of the world. I think that sharing my ideas and providing assistance to those that need it can make a positive impact in their lives," says Jason. "Helping newcomers adapt to a new country is my mission as a Canadian citizen," adds Jason.

Parent Advisory Council (PAC) Volunteers:

PACs play an integral part of every school. Officially recognized as the collective voice of parents of their school, PACs can advise the school board, the principal and staff of the school respecting any matter relating to the education of the students and the school.

The PAC volunteers at Simon Fraser Elementary are always organizing fun community events. Back in October, many volunteers helped with Simon Fraser's very successful Casino Night fundraiser. The funds raised for the event went towards a variety of initiatives, including a music program, an outdoor classroom, and buses for field trips."[Our PAC volunteers] are not only positive role models for their children, but they also make a tremendous difference to the teaching and learning opportunities that we are able to offer at our school," says Cathy Thomas, principal at Simon Fraser Elementary. "Our volunteers are an important part of our school culture," adds Thomas.

Playground Buddies Volunteers:

During recess time at MacCorkindale Elementary, a group of Grade 5 and 6 students volunteer their time to help primary year students on the playground. Part of their role is to ensure that no student is left out of play. Grade 5 student Ameerah Lal volunteers because she wants to take on a leadership role for younger students and teach them about manners and kindness. "Our school is fortunate to have such caring students like Ameerah who want to help out in our school community," says MacCorkindale Elementary principal Jim Munk. 

Three other Playground Buddies volunteers at Jamieson Elementary have also shared their thoughts about the program: "Playground Buddies are role models and inspirations to younger students and help others feel included and safe in the school community. We think that Playground Buddies can not only make younger children feel included, but we also make sure students of all ages have friends to go through their elementary school years with," said by Sophia, Alysha, and Anna (Grade 7 Playground Buddies at Jamieson Elementary).

The Vancouver School District wishes all of our hardworking volunteers a Happy International Volunteers Day! Your efforts and dedication are what make our school communities stronger.

Interested in a volunteer opportunity at the Vancouver School District? Contact us at info@vsb.bc.ca or check out some of our postings here.