As with most volunteers, Michelle Pelletier goes about her business in a quiet, effective and enthusiastic way.
Nominated for the 2015 Volunteer Citizen of the Year (VCofY), she is humble about her activities but has nothing but praise for the organization.
“VCofY highlights all the people who give their time and attention to the community,” she said.
“I think the program is great and I’m pleased to be in the company of such excellent nominees.”
Besides working full time (which she doesn’t finish until about 7 p.m., sometimes later) Michelle is also an avid volunteer with the Quesnel Rod and Gun Club. She has served on the executive for more than 10 years taking various offices including secretary, president, vice president and currently is a director.
“This nomination allows me to promote Rod and Gun Club,” she said.
“These type of organizations serve as a valuable opportunity to teach safe gun handling and provides a safe environment for the gun enthusiasts and hunters.”
She also said she’s pleased the meetings for Rod and Gun Club are at 7:30 p.m. or she wouldn’t be able to make it since she works to 7 p.m.
Whenever possible, Michelle volunteers her time to organizations which specifically help children or address issues with children. Michelle also works with children and often her work spills over into her personal time as she continues to serve her clients in non-work-related activities.
“I love my work and the children I work with,” she said.
“It becomes much more than just a job.”
Michelle entered her current profession later in life, earning her degree at age 55.
“People need to realize its never too late to pursue whatever you want to do.”
She sees this as especially true in volunteering, adding when you volunteer it provides a double benefit.
“You help others but it also is good for you.”
Michelle has also contributed her volunteer time to organizations that serve the less fortunate such as Good Cheer; spent eight years calling bingo; volunteered with the Bouchie Lake Recreation Commission; and helped out with Take Back the Night events.
Should she be able to free up more volunteer time, Michelle would like to help the Salvation Army and possibly Crooked Leg Ranch because of the good work these organizations do.
“With all the technological advances in society, the plain and simple act of volunteering your time still has impact on you, your community and society as a whole.”
The 2015 Quesnel Citizen of the Year event is April 19 at the Billy Barker Casino Hotel lounge. Tickets are $25 each and available at City Hall.