To kick-off National Volunteer Week, members of Council welcomed those who share their gifts, volunteering in the community, to a celebration of their dedication, spirit and the magic they bring to Wolfville.
Mayor Jodi MacKay sincerely thanked the volunteers at the event, acknowledging that their contributions touch lives in ways both big and small, and in every case, making the community stronger.
"We live in a beautiful place – but the magic, or pixie dust as we’ve been calling it – comes from you – the people. It is truly what makes our Town the best place to be," Mayor MacKay said. "We are truly grateful for your service, and we honor the powerful example you set for us all."
The Town's advisory committee members were recognized by Council at the event, along with a special nod to the team who brought the Monday community meal, Soups and Sides, to life over the past eight months.
With the names and profiles of some of community volunteers on display, and their contributions shared, Kevin West was named as Wolfville's Volunteer of the Year.
Dr. Beverley Cassidy was invited to share details of her nomination of West, who took a short break from volunteering to attend the Sunday afternoon event.
In her nomination, Cassidy said West volunteers for many organizations from the MacDonald House restoration to the Deep Roots Festival organization team.
"I know him best as a facilitator for Memory Café Nova Scotia, a provincial nonprofit initiative to support quality of life and inclusion for people living with dementia and their care partners," Cassidy said. "As a volunteer, Kevin is highly reliable, kind, skilled at engaging others across the lifespan. He doesn’t see disability as any kind of impediment to finding meaningful human connection. I cannot think of a more deserving person for acknowledgement with this volunteer award."
Once the award was presented, West agreed to a brief acceptance speech where he simply encouraged everyone to "keep on volunteering."
West's name will be put forward as the Town's provincial nominee and he will be recognized by the Province later this year.
