Get yer volunteer on

By Christian Louden

Volunteer Services kicked their recruitment drive into high gear Tues., Sept. 12 and Wed., Sept. 13 with an open house to raise awareness of volunteer positions both on and off campus.

With an abundance of opportunities available, there’s something for everyone at volunteer services; from giving out directions and free condoms at the Information Centre, to reading to children, to helping build low-income housing over spring break. In addition to on-campus opportunities, there’s plenty to do off campus as well.

“Basically, any interest you have [in volunteering], we can help set it up,” said information centre and lost & found coordinator Chelsea Detheridge.

Students’ Union vice president-external Julie Labonte said getting involved is the most important thing students can do to benefit student life on campus.

“You meet so many awesome people and learn new skills,” said Labonte, a veteran volunteer herself. “It gives you a wider view of the world and people, and the way things really are.”

In addition to meeting people and gaining skills, Labonte said volunteering is good for the soul, community, and not least of all, the resume.

Out of approximately 250 on-campus positions annually, 30 per cent of volunteers return each year, said Volunteer Services manager Sue Wilmot.

On campus volunteer commitments can be as little as an hour per week, added Wilmot.

You can apply to volunteer services online at www.su.ucalgary.ca. For more info, drop into thier office at MSC 225 or phone 220-3092.

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