Laurel Awards 2016
Our awardees know the many benefits of volunteering.
Westminster Canterbury Richmond’s Laurel Awards were recently presented to six recipients whose significant donations of time and energy soar beyond the ordinary. Established in 1992, the Laurel Awards recognize the valuable contributions volunteers make in improving the lives of those we serve every day. Their generosity provides an example of the transformative power of volunteering both to the receiver and giver. Our 2016 honorees who gave of their time and themselves are: Ann Archer, Woody Dotson, Erline Eason, Pat Kawana, Fletcher Lowe and Jan Morris.
Being a volunteer has many advantages. Here are five benefits that might encourage you to find a favorite cause and give your time:
- Volunteering connects you to your community and to others. Communities depend on volunteers to be the glue that binds many initiatives. Helping out can make a real difference to the lives of people, animals and organizations in need.
- Volunteering helps you stay physically healthy. Volunteer activities which require physical activity can be good for keeping in shape which is especially beneficial in seniors.
- Volunteering provides a sense of purpose. Helping others can give seniors new meaning and purpose in their lives. This is especially important for those who are retired or have lost a spouse.
- Volunteering combats depression. Social isolation is a key risk factor for depression. Volunteering offers a support system and keeps your social network active. Many seniors find that a sense of purpose and interaction elevates their mood and reduces daily stress.
- Volunteering is fun. Helping others leads to greater fulfillment and happiness. Who doesn’t need more joy in their life?
If you would like more information on our Laurel Award Honorees or volunteer opportunities at Westminster Canterbury Richmond, please contact Kathy Morton at 804-261-5201 or Beth Clifton at 804-264-6258.