|
|
|
|
|
Trillium Villa celebrates volunteers during appreciation dinner
First volunteer recognition event since the pandemic brings together residents, staff and volunteers
5/15/2026
-
Deron Hamel
|
|
|
|
For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, Trillium Villa hosted a celebration to honour the Sarnia long-term care community's volunteers.
Held during National Volunteer Week, the Trillium Villa celebration brought together “the great individuals who give their time and energy to the residents” for an appreciation dinner that included laughter, photo opportunities and plenty of food, explains Tara Klompstra, the home's life enrichment manager.
“Volunteers are the backbone to our society, and any act, big or small, (that volunteers do) goes a long way,” she tells S&R Today. “It isn't about the grand gestures, but the kindness, trust and moments of human connection.”
Hosted in the home's activity room, several of Trillium Villa's volunteers attended and shared their experiences with one another. A classic barbecue spread was served, including hot dogs, sausages, baked beans and salads. For dessert, attendees were treated to ice cream and parfaits.
“(It was) the best meal in ages,” Tara says.
Volunteers were also praised by Trillium Villa's residents' council during the celebration.
“Without volunteers like you, our home wouldn't be as loving, caring and successful, no matter what role you play in the home,” JP Reny, vice-president of Trillium Villa's residents' council, told volunteers.
Since the event, Trillium Villa has received several compliments and expressions of “appreciation for being appreciated” from volunteers, Tara notes.
Trillium Villa administrator Andrew McClintock and S&R director of resident experience and programs Naomi Stevens attended the event, expressing their gratitude to volunteers while also providing insight into the new Trillium Villa, which is slated to open this year.
“Our volunteers are just as excited as we are,” Tara says.
National Volunteer Week was April 19-25. The week is marked by events nationwide that celebrated volunteers and all they do to enrich the lives of others. This year marked the 85th National Volunteer Week.
If you have a story you would like to share with S&R Today, please contact the newsroom at deronhamel(at)gmail.com.
If you have feedback on this story, please contact the newsroom at deronhamel(at)gmail.com.
|
|
|