On the occasion of National Volunteer Week, taking place from April 19 to 25, it is important to take a moment to recognize the exceptional commitment of the volunteers who enrich our community.
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the extraordinary team of volunteers at The Little Green Library, whom I have the privilege of working alongside. Thanks to their dedication, this library serves not only the municipalities of Dundee, Elgin, Franklin, Godmanchester, Hinchinbrooke, and Huntingdon, but also welcomes all residents of the Haut-Saint-Laurent seeking a dynamic and bilingual cultural space.
Behind every borrowed book and every activity offered are passionate volunteers. They are the ones who purchase, sort, catalogue, and repair books, staff the lending desk, manage the budget and computer system, and organize a wide range of activities: movie nights, art exhibitions, a chess club, workshops, conferences, and much more. Their involvement makes the library a vibrant, welcoming place that meets the needs of its members.
The Little Green Library is an inspiring example, but it is not alone. Throughout the Haut-Saint-Laurent, volunteers are involved in essential social and community organizations: Optimist clubs, meal delivery services and food banks, sports associations, 4-H clubs and Scouting groups, women’s circles, schools and parent committees, hospitals and CHSLD. I am also thinking of volunteer firefighters, first responders, organizers of agricultural fairs, as well as all those who help bring community events to life, such as national celebrations, Christmas parades, and many other local initiatives.
Our community is enriched by these individuals who generously give their time, energy, and heart for the benefit of all. Let us take the time to sincerely thank them.
And above all, let us ask ourselves: how can I get involved too?
Catherine Turgeon
President, La Petite Bibliothèque Verte – The Little Green Library