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Ww aie ‘is In this month's issue of Focus on Scu- , we are pleased to introduce and celebrate some of Scugog's tireless vol- unteers. Without the benefit of so many caring individuals, who offer their time gener- ously and freely, our towns and villages would cease to function as we know them today. Scugog Township is blessed with hundreds of volunteers, some visible and others almost invisible. Over the past three years we’ve seen efforts from the municipality and business- es to recognize some of these people. The largest of the volunteer recogni- tion programs was introduced by Mayor Marilyn Pearce a few years ago. This is known as the “Mayor's Honour Roll.” Since its inception, more than 75 indi- viduals and groups have been identified as having contributed to the betterment of Scugog Township through their volun- teerism. These volunteers are honoured each year and their names are placed on a plaque at the Scugog municipal office. But there are many unsung individu- als who seek nothing but the personal reward of knowing they have contributed in some small way to make the commu- nity in which they reside a better place to live and work. Results of a recent study on volun- teering in Canada show a whopping 12 million individuals across the country contribute more than two billion volun- teer hours each year. Here in Scugog volunteers touch al- Most every aspect of our daily lives. From art and culture, sport and recrea- tion, education and research, health and social services, to the environment and religion... all of these, and more, benefit concerned, caring individuals who strive to help make life better for others. Few would argue that is the true life-blood of each and every community. Without the multitude of bod- ies who share their knowledge, compas- sion and time... our communities would be far less vibrant. It's been said that “volunteers are such an integral part of life as we know it today, that they are sometimes taken for granted.” We invite you, our readers, to help us as we celebrate some of our special “vol- unteers” and ensure their contributions to the community do not go unnoticed. On behalf of the entire Scugog com- munity we applaud the efforts of our vol- unteers and extend to each of them a great big “THANKS.” TED GRIFFIN Ted Griffen has lived in Port ganizations, including the LionsClub, Scouts, Chamber ofCommerce, UnitedChurch Ci and enthusiasm. There's little doubt, when Ted says “| love our great community,” he means it. udly sponsored by VANCAMP CONTRACTING Glenn, Donna & Bill Pia, PORT A PERRY 4 te VILLA The Port Perry Villa wishes to express their appreciation to ALL of the wonderful & dedicated Volunteers who so caringly give of themselves. Watch for our New Pre Phone 905-985-3312 sit Ga Enhancing Quality Of Life Through Service Excellence 28 FOCUS - AUGUST 2007 focus@observerpub.ca