Jean Stimpson is proud to be part of the corps of volunteers in Quesnel. She says every volunteer should be honoured for the tireless work they do for a host of organizations, activities and events that make Quesnel a great place to live.
“Recognizing one Volunteer Citizen of the Year is wonderful, however celebrating all volunteers would be even better,” she said.
Stimson is one of six nominees for the title of Volunteer Citizen of the Year 2012 and for good reason.
Her list of volunteer accomplishments and commitments is long. Volunteering is a family tradition; Stimpson began her volunteering as a Girl Guide leader and Sunday school teacher when she was a young bride in Victoria.
“After I had my children, I volunteered in all aspects of their schooling,” she said.
Once the family relocated to Quesnel in the 1980s, Stimpson has given 29 years with the Legion Ladies Auxiliary, 20 years with Gold Pan Lifeline, 19 years with Dunrovin/Residential Care, 18 years with the Quesnel Lions Club, 14 years with Emergency Social Services, 13 years with Quesnel Crime Stoppers, three years with One to One Reading program and just this year she joined the Hospital Auxiliary.
“I volunteer because I’m a people person,” she said.
“Acknowledging people and putting a smile on their face is its own reward.”
Stimpson added the simple act of spending time and talking to people can brighten their day and yours.
“I also feel its important to call and comfort those who’ve lost someone.”
In her nomination letter, Colleen Mighton said of Stimpson, “Jean’s energy, initiative and complete dedication to her missions inspires me to be a better person.”
With all her many volunteer activities, Stimpson said she couldn’t chose which was the most important.
“I love them all.”
Quesnel’s 2012 Volunteer Citizen of the Year will be announced at the gala event, April 23.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and dinner is at 6:30 p.m. in the Legion Hall.
Tickets are $20 each and available at City Hall.