Entries by Sonya Beimers

Bryden – BFM Foundation Canada

Bryden's Day at Mission Thrift Store - London

 Mission Thrift Store exists to serve the communities where the stores are located, with affordable products, financial assistance and hope.

Bryden spent September 26, his volunteer day, with Mission Thrift Store. He spent his day receiving shipments, processing them, testing hardware items and preparing them to be placed on the salesfloor.

Bryden selected the organization because it aligns with his values, and those of Tradition Mutual Insurance. He also wanted to give back to his local community. 

Kimberly – RMHC Southwestern Ontario

Kimberly's Day at RMHC Southwestern Ontario

Ronald McDonald House Charity Canada helps more than 25,000 families stay close to their sick child during their time of treatment. This Canada-wide charity provides a “Home away from Home.” Ronald McDonald House provides home cooked meals and living quarters so families can stay together during these unforeseen circumstances.

RMHC has many local volunteers who offer support to families on various levels during difficult times.

Kimberly’s sister and her family spent over 6 months in the Ronald McDonald House and she saw firsthand how much Ronald McDonald House truly cares for the families that come through their doors. Kimberly chose to give back to her local community as a simple “thank you” for all that RMHC London has done for her sister and her family, as well as our local community.

Kimberly spent the day baking homemade goodies and preparing crafts for the kids staying at the Ronald McDonald House. During her day of volunteering, she also got to meet several families and hear their journeys.

There are many volunteer opportunities available at the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about Ronald McDonald House, or to donate or volunteer, please visit rmhc-swo.ca.

Kelly – Kirkton Agricultural Society

Kelly's Day at the Kirkton Fair

The Kirkton Fall Fair/Kirkton Ag. Society showcases agriculture in the local community. Their organization provides education and opportunities through their 4-H and Junior Farmers groups, and explores new opportunities through learning.

Kelly selected this organization because she grew up here and continues to live in this community. Her time volunteering with the Ag Society was spent putting up security fences, organizing the education tent, moving straw bales, setting up the community centre (to help display local talent!), as well as clean up and take down duties.

“I would do this again in a heartbeat. Supporting my local community is near and dear.”

Pictured from left to right: Jo-Dee Hern, Director at Large; Kelly Wheeler, Tradition Mutual Employee; Catherine Liscumb, Past President of Kirkton Fall Fair; Becca Gibson, President of Kirkton Fall Fair

Sarah – Sebringville Athletic Association

Sarah's Day at the SAA Family Fun Day

Meet to the Sebringville Athletic Association! We’re a team of volunteers running the Sebringville Community Centre, baseball diamonds, and playground. We bring people together through Sebringville Sting Softball teams, family dances, kids’ craft mornings, holiday bingo nights and much more!

As a registered charity, The SAA relies on hall rentals, donations, and fundraising to keep things running. Sarah and her family joined the SAA last year to give back and support our community.

The SAA’s Family Fun Day took place on Saturday, August 24th, to celebrate the end of the baseball season with activities like a bouncy castle, carnival games, pie-your-coach, and a BBQ. Ball players enjoyed a free meal and giveaways from local businesses, like Tradition.

Sarah volunteered her time on Friday, August 23 and Saturday, August 24. On the Friday, volunteers set up the hall, collected silent auction items, prizes for the children & food for the BBQ. On the Saturday, she volunteered her time, but also attended as a parent!

We’re always looking for volunteers of all ages to help with events or join our Board. Whether you can help out at one event or get more involved, we’d love to have you on board!
Sarah MacAlpine
SAA Member