The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is thanking all its volunteers for their continued dedication to supporting and improving their communities. The RDOS launched its volunteer program in December 2020, aiming to make volunteering easier and more accessible. The variety of opportunities to volunteer includes parks and recreation, emergency support services, committees and commissions, and Community Champions.

Recreation volunteers lend their time and energy to diverse programming like arts and sports. Some also participate in Parks and Recreation Commissions, which provide input to the Board regarding parks and recreation programming, representing the public interest of their communities in developing a strategic plan to establish a long-term vision for parks and recreation services. Emergency Support Services help meet the basic needs of British Columbians impacted by disasters by providing short-term support in a compassionate manner. Advisory Planning Commissions and Official Community Plan Citizen’s Committees help represent their community’s interests and provide valuable feedback and input on proposed policies or development in their region.

The South Okanagan Conservation Fund Technical Advisory Committee consists of experts in the conservation field and dedicates their knowledge and skills to ensure the conservation fund is delivered responsibly and in accordance with established environmental themes and goals related to aquatic systems, wildlife species, and habitat for native fish and wildlife. The Community Champion program identifies key people within their communities who are able to share accurate and timely information from the RDOS with local residents in a reliable and consistent manner.

The RDOS volunteer program also includes Youth Volunteers, by assisting the recreation team and sharing their talents to improve the quality of recreation programs. Youth Volunteers must be 14 years or older, and volunteer hours can be attributed to those required for graduation.

In addition to contributing time and expertise, there are many other benefits including gaining valuable work experience, expanding your social networks and staying physically and mentally active. Volunteerism also promotes a sense of belonging and even increases happiness levels. Visit the RDOS YouTube channel to see the volunteer video.

If you are interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities, please contact info@rdos.bc.ca  

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

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