Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have come together and mobilized to help the most vulnerable members of our society. Whether by delivering food or medical supplies to health care workers or running errands for their elderly neighbour, numerous Canadians, including many public service employees, have stepped up to the plate and gone beyond the call of duty to support their community.
CAPE is familiar with the critical role that volunteers play. CAPE is an organization that relies heavily on the involvement of members who generously volunteer their time to make sure other members receive the help and support they need, and that their voices are heard wherever they may be in Canada.
This is why I would like to take this opportunity during National Volunteer Week, to acknowledge the work and dedication of our volunteers, and express gratitude for their unwavering support.
Currently, we have over 190 volunteers across the country who contribute significantly to the association. They occupy different positions in their locals such as president, vice-president, treasurer, director, etc. They engage and help members in their locals in a variety of ways. They are our eyes and ears in the workplace and ensure that we are informed of workplace developments, changes, and issues relating to the well-being of our members.
As the COVID-19 crisis began disrupting our lives earlier in March, the feedback and information we received from our volunteers during the transition helped us address all the hurdles along the way, and come up with practical and effective solutions.
Beyond our locals, some volunteers are interested in the life and future of their association and for that reason, many are also involved in different sub-committees. They are entrusted with important roles and great responsibilities. Their work is of tremendous value as CAPE relies on input from those sub-committees to make the best decisions possible for its members.
Some of our volunteers play a critical part in the running and the development of the association. As such, members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) deserve special recognition. Members of the NEC are a diverse group of people who dedicate their skills, make great sacrifices and volunteer countless hours of their time t to ensure their association thrives. Together, we are working on bringing your association to the next level, which is only possible because of their unparalleled devotion to ensuring the wellbeing of the membership.
The COVID-19 crisis has put all volunteer communities to the test, and everyone has risen to the occasion. I am deeply touched by the boundless spirit of giving displayed by many Canadians and public service employees despite the challenging circumstances.
I am also extremely grateful to be able to count on so many generous and committed people across the country. Thanks to them, we continue to have a positive impact on the lives of our members, rain or shine.
On behalf of the membership, I would like to thank all the CAPE volunteers and every other volunteer in the country for the personal sacrifices they help others. In these difficult times, more than ever we need helpers and kindness.
Greg Phillips
President
