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Volunteer Stories
Inspiration
Our City of Surrey volunteers inspire us each and every day. Let them inspire you with their stories!
“It’s been my first year to volunteer, and what a great experience it was. I was always in position of a student, never a leader. As a volunteer I was helping others, but I also helped myself. I was very nervous on my first day, after going through preparation programs, all the rules and regulations seemed overwhelming. I wanted to do a good job. What a surprise my first day was. It was a great day! All my worries were gone instantly. I had fun, enjoyed the kids and supervisors. It built my self esteem a lot! I felt great seeing that I can contribute my time and knowledge to be part of a team. My leader was great, she guided me, taught me how to interact with kids, the rest came naturally. Every day was a new experience for me and the participants. I probably waited for the next day with bigger anticipation than them. I would strongly recommend volunteering to all my friends. It makes me feel good, worthy and valuable citizen. Thank you for the opportunity.” – Daniel - Summer Day Camp Volunteer
"Since I've grown up, I've forgotten what it's like to be a little kid. I didn't realize
that even the simplest things could
make them happy. Ever since I've been volunteering at Summer Day Camps, I've really enjoyed getting to know the children and learning more about myself. Remembering how old games like Capture the Flag, coloring sheets and even story-telling were so much fun! I've also forgotten how imaginative they are! They tell me stories everyday and I would never cease to get tired of them. Of course, they would drain the life out of me, running around and dragging me everywhere. It just reminds how I was like a kid, lively and without a care in the world. All the time I've spent with these children taught me a great deal of things and I hope to see them again next summer!" - Michelle - Summer Day Camp Volunteer
"Volunteering this year at the different fun zone and sport camps has been a very enjoyable experience. All the camps were different in their own way, which made it made fun for myself and the children participating. All of the leaders were very kind and helpful. As this was my first time volunteering with fun zone and sports camps, the leaders made it very easy for me to adapt to the various camps. The best thing about volunteering was the positive environment that is set by the leaders for the children; therefore everyone had a lot of fun. If you like working in a team environment, volunteering with fun zone and sports camps is probably the best." Manveer - Summer Day Camp Volunteer
"I volunteered both Friday and Saturday [at Party for the Planet - Surrey Celebrates Earth Day]. Friday, I spent on the bike powered stage and that was awesome. I got to know how the bikes were powering the stage and got to share the story with other people. Plus, it was a cold night, and so the bikes kept us all warm! Saturday, I was with the salmon lifecycle course and too, was very fun. We enjoyed dressing up the adorable children in the fish costumes, weaving them through the egg hunt, rushing them through the tunnels, and helping them "fishing". We all enjoyed scaring the children with the blow-up whale, as we each took turns being the monster! All in all, this was an awesome experience for me at the Party of the Planet as I enjoyed every bit of it!" Chirag - City Wide Special Events Volunteer
"The best part about volunteering over spring break was to see the playful bond between the instructors, volunteers and the children. The kids are always smiling and cheery that it brightens my day. I've been so lucky to work along with a wonderful group of instructors that to think one day, I would like to be in their positions as well. They're always relaxed and accepting that they treat the volunteers as not only a co-worker, but as a friend. The City of Surrey has made this experience possible and I would like to thank them. This spring break has been a definite 11 out of 10 for me and hopefully I get to do it again next year!" Wendy - Community Recreation Services Volunteer
"I volunteered because I have always been a firm believer in giving back to the community. I am a grade 7 teacher at Simon Cunningham Elementary School in North Surrey, and myself and many other teachers are trying to foster leadership qualities in all our students, and I felt that working with the Lend a Hand program provided my students with a great opportunity to be leaders, and also learn what a good feeling you get from giving back to your neighborhood. I can honestly say that my students have found this experience to be very satisfying emotionally and socially. I have gained the satisfaction that I have done my best to provide leadership opportunities for my students, and for me this is all I want from the experience. As for potential volunteers, I would say that they should take the bull by the horns and get involved as it really feels good to help the community. They should not be scared to try new things as well as there is tons to learn from expanding your personal life experiences in such a positive way. This has been a great experience, and I will continue to support Parks and recreation via the Lend a Hand program as long as I am a teacher. " Paul - City of Surrey Volunteer
"I volunteer for the City of Surrey because it is a lot of fun. I have gained lots of job experience and have met a lot of new friends. I like to be part of our community. Projects I have worked on have been S.N.A.P., salmon homecoming, releaf program, tree planting, community cleanups, school awareness and anywhere else I could be of help. I have learned that working hard within the community can make you feel really good. By working hard I can make a difference. For future volunteers I would suggest not to be afraid to ask, "what can I do", then do it the best you can!" West - City of Surrey Volunteer
" I volunteer with Surrey Parks, Recreation & Culture because it lets me experience lots of hands-on work at the office. Volunteering at the office has definitely boosted up my confidence level. I've met many friendly people, and its a great way to expand your social network. From learning how to make phone calls to perfecting my socializing skills, this experience benefited me in more ways than one. Being as young as I am, it's a great feeling to know that I can, indeed, make a difference." - Mehtab, City of Surrey Volunteer
"I was inspired to be a volunteer in order to give something back to my community. Volunteering has allowed me to feel that I can take ownership to what happens in my community. We are truly blessed to live in such a great area. By working jointly with the other partners in our community (City of Surrey, RCMP, School District) we are able to tackle issues that affect not only the lives of my family but the lives of our neighbours as well." - Dave, City of Surrey Volunteer
"I volunteer because it is my hobby and my passion. I love to help others out and provide knowledge and guidance where needed. I have met some amazing people who have inspired me to do new things, take chances and get involved in things I normally don't partake in." - Chelsea, City of Surrey Volunteer
"I enjoy volunteering because it gives me the opportunity to meet new people, to learn and understand new things, and to pass on my knowledge and experiences to others. I feel a great sense of accomplishment from building relationships, experiencing various cultures and developing my leadership skills." - Tatsiana, City of Surrey Volunteer
"The reason I volunteer for the City of Surrey is to show my appreciation for the job the City does in creating and maintaining our parks. We are so fortunate to have an abundance of beautiful parks to enjoy here in Surrey. On my walks, I have met so many friendly people who appreciate the work of the volunteers and I feel a sense of satisfaction that I am helping out my community in this small way. Of course, the added benefits of fresh air and exercise are a bonus!" - Bev, City of Surrey Volunteer