Volunteering in Downtown Lethbridge
Volunteers diligently prepare materials for mailing at the Galt.
Image courtesy of the Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa
Volunteers play a key role in maintaining service levels, fulfilling mandates, and facilitating programs for many community-centred organizations in downtown Lethbridge. They often assist staff in delivering services and leading critically important areas of an organization.
Volunteers’ contributions can have a profound impact on an institution. For instance, in 2023 Galt Museum & Archives and Fort Whoop-Up volunteers contributed over $118,000 in free labour to the institution allowing it to deliver high-quality community, school and special event programs to thousands of visitors and program participants.
Linda Kofman who has volunteered at the Galt for over 10 years recalls, “I have never been worried about my safety when I walk up to the building and enter those front doors. We have had homeless people come to our Ice Cream socials and they have always been respectful of others.”
A vibrant carnival at the Galt, fueled by the tireless efforts of dedicated volunteers.
Image courtesy of the Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa
Such sentiments reverberate across sister organizations like the Southern Alberta Art Gallery (SAAG) and Lethbridge Public Library (LPL). These organizations are maintaining strong connections with groups of volunteers who help to deliver programs and special events.
"I have been a regular volunteer with the SAAG for a little over a year now. I love helping out the SAAG because their events are professional, well-put-together and fun,” says Talayna Ekelund.
“The experiences that I have had with the SAAG have introduced me to a wonderful group of hardworking individuals and a multitude of immersive art from astonishing local artists. As a regular volunteer, these events never get old as there is always something new and exciting happening."
A volunteer with Friends of the Lethbridge Public Library, Deb Rakos, expresses a profound connection with the organization. “I have loved the library forever. Volunteering in the downtown library every Monday with the Friends has only amplified my feelings. I love the comfort and the delight of finding new books, magazines, audio… and the care and warmth of the staff. Most of all I love how my perception of the library has changed my outlook towards some of our citizens. All are welcome, as I believe it should be,” says Rakos.
Building a community is not easy work; it requires commitment, dedication and assistance from people and organizations from far and wide. Volunteer Lethbridge is a community builder. They continue to be a valued resource to many not-for-profit organizations including the Galt, SAAG and Library. They have referred numerous volunteers to businesses and community service organizations in downtown Lethbridge for years.
Downtown Lethbridge thrives, thanks in part to the incredible dedication of volunteers.
Image courtesy of the Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa
Often Volunteer Lethbridge is one of the first places that newcomers visit when they arrive in the community – they are a place of connection and opportunity. They are a valued community partner and gateway to a wealth of experiences that Lethbridge has to offer. Volunteering with an organization in downtown Lethbridge is a great way in which to support the community. Think about volunteering today…it might be one of the best decisions you make.