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Giving time to enrich lives in every community Continued from page 28 Volunteer Week N AT I O N A L grow, develop, and repair itself. Similar to how a tree relies on its roots to grow, communities rely on volunteers to yield the necessary nutrients needed for the community to collectively rally into action and nd innovative ways to grow together. Volunteer Halton is honoured to witness those who have given their time and exper- 29 | Thursday, April 14, 2016 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com April 10-16, 2016 and initiatives that bene t the environment. The efforts of all of Canada's volunteers have enriched Canadian life beyond compare. Canada's volunteers are diverse people from all walks of life. In spite of these differences, volunteers seem to have one thing in common: their desire and eagerness to make not just a difference in their community, but to leave their mark, their root, in society as well. It is vital that we give our volunteers the recognition they so greatly deserve. As exquisitely stated by Volunteer Canada, "Just like roots are essential for trees to bloom, volunteers are essential for communities to bloom... Even the tiniest volunteer effort leaves a profound and lasting mark in a community, much like tree rings that appear over time." Tree roots anchor the tree to the ground; keeping it stable and protecting it from harm. A tree's root is also responsible for producing the nutrients the tree needs in order to tise and continue to grow their roots and leave a deep and lasting impact on the Halton community. We invite everyone to experience the world of volunteering by giving back to their community. Plant your roots in your community and visit volunteerhalton.ca. Provided by Ann Coburn, Director Volunteer Halton Thank you volunteers! Your kindness is creating ripples of change that impact the lives of others. Because of you, our community is healthier in every way. ymcaofoakville.org Volunteers are the roots of strong communities