Photo: Contributed

The South Okanagan Similkameen Volunteer Centre is releasing a new publication containing hundreds of ways to help out with more than 40 different community groups.

“Many residents who register as a volunteer with the South Okanagan Similkameen Volunteer Centre have skills and experience needed to fill volunteer roles. This publication helps potential volunteers self-identify where they can apply their talents to address important economic and social issues in our communities,” said Mike Potgieter, president of the SOS Volunteer Centre.

Opportunities to volunteer include volunteering to facilitate informational workshops for specific health concerns such as Alzheimer's and Arthritis.

Open volunteer positions also include helping families in need, supporting the environment and arts groups, fostering and caring for distressed animals, helping improve literacy, cooking up connections with seniors and helping out at events and festivals.

“Our exhibit at The Okanagan Healthy Living Fair is a great place to learn about the growing body of evidence that links those who volunteer as having longer, healthier and happier lives. Research shows that volunteering enhances a person’s social networks and has a positive effect on social psychological factors, such as an individual’s sense of purpose, which in turn leads to better physical well-being," said Potgieter.

The public is invited to pick up their copy of the 2017 Volunteer Opportunities publication at the Volunteer Centre’s exhibit during The Healthy Living Fair on March 11 at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre. 

Register as a volunteer during the fair, and enter your name for a draw to win a gift basket compliments of Total Restoration Services.

For information on volunteering in your community, or to register as a volunteer on-line, visit the SOS Volunteer Centre’s website at www.volunteercentre.info, call 1-888-576-5661 or e-mail [email protected]