We know that volunteers are the backbone of any community. Without the efforts of people who donate their time, energy and expertise – asking for nothing but a thank you in return – many vital organizations and agencies would simply cease to function. In our third annual Our People, Our Peninsula feature, Peace Arch News is profiling seven volunteers whose efforts are making a meaningful difference in their community.
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Getting to know seniors in their own surroundings – while honing her own Scrabble skills in the process – has added up to time well spent for Pat Boston.
Boston started volunteering with Brella Society (formerly Seniors ComeShare Society) in 2018 and is, she is careful to note, “merely one of currently 112 dedicated volunteers” with the organization.
“Giving back to the community I am fortunate to live in is important to me,” she says.
With so many worthwhile causes that depend on volunteers to help them carry out their important work, there’s a reason Brella Society stood out for Boston – variety.
“Brella Society has many areas a person can choose to volunteer in,” she notes.
“I’ve met, in person and over the phone, many wonderful people through my volunteering I would otherwise never have spoken to.”
During COVID she helped package meals that other volunteers delivered to those in need.
“Knowing people were getting these meals made it worthwhile,” she says.
She’s helped out in the office and says she’s privileged to be able to assist Brella staff, who go out of their way to help seniors and are always available to answer questions.
“I’ve just finished scheduling tax return appointments for seniors, and five very knowledgeable volunteers very kindly gave their time for eight weeks,” she says.
As an organization dedicated to serving seniors, we at the Brella Community Services Society are privileged to have an incredible group of volunteers who help us in various ways, says Reza Merzaie, Brella’s co-ordinator of volunteer services.
“Pat, in particular, has been a tremendous asset to our organization, providing vital volunteer support across numerous programs, such as friendly visitor, income tax, administration and events.
“Pat has generously dedicated her time and efforts to supporting and assisting seniors through the Brella Society, and we believe that her contributions are truly deserving of recognition.”
The sense of appreciation is mutual.
“I am so thankful to Brella for giving me the opportunity to help others in my community,” says Boston.
“I have gained so much more than I have given, and it’s been very rewarding. It just makes sense to share our time and talents with others.”