December 5, 2023, is International Volunteer Day. The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) would like to thank all volunteers for their continued dedication to supporting the improvement of communities across the region. 

Emergency Support Services (ESS) volunteers provide critical assistance to help those affected by disasters, while others contribute to the safety of their community by supporting RDOS fire departments. Community Champions help share accurate, reliable, and timely information from the Regional District on social media channels and local notice boards. 

Recreation volunteers lend their time and energy to a diverse range of programs, including arts, culture, and sports. Youth volunteers also lend their talents to the RDOS and have been instrumental in improving the quality of recreation programs. 

“Volunteerism is critical in helping RDOS Recreation strive to promote its goal of Healthy Individuals and Communities,” said Mark Pendergraft, RDOS Chair. 

The RDOS relaunched its volunteer program in December 2020, intending to make volunteering easy and more accessible. There are opportunities to volunteer with the RDOS through parks, recreation, ESS, communications, and various committees.

Volunteering offers many benefits, including invaluable work experience, an expanded social network, healthy physical activity, meaningful engagement with your community, and a sense of belonging, all of which promote increased happiness. 

To learn more about RDOS volunteer opportunities, including the Community Champions program, please visit the RDOS website at www.rdos.bc.ca. 

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen 

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