Tourism Kelowna is once again celebrating National Volunteer Week (NVW), which runs from April 14 to 20, 2024. This year's theme, “Every Moment Matters,” celebrates the "importance of every volunteer and each contribution they make at a moment when we need support more than ever."
Our organization is fortunate and proud to have a dedicated group of 46 Community Specialist volunteers and 16 Board of Director volunteers, who generously donate their time and expertise to support our region's robust and well-connected tourism community.
Our Community Specialist volunteers share their knowledge, skills, and empathy with guests. Whether at the YLW Airport Kiosk or at the Kelowna Visitor Centre downtown, you'll see our team of friendly volunteers directing visitors and locals in the right direction and informing them of all the wonderful opportunities available in and around Kelowna.
In 2023, our Community Specialist volunteers contributed just over 4,000 hours to our organizations, saving Tourism Kelowna nearly $75K in labour costs. Beyond those savings, and perhaps most importantly, the time, care, and attention they deliver are what make this group of individuals outstanding at what they do and what makes Tourism Kelowna shine.
Reflecting on this year's theme and Tourism Kelowna's values, the moments that matter are created thanks to the kindness and nurturing nature of our volunteers. Whether it's a welcoming smile, a helping hand, or a moment of compassion, these small moments can make all the difference to the recipients. The care and service they provide exemplify how tourism and hospitality can unite people and foster a welcoming community and a sense of belonging.
As a new resident of Kelowna and the Okanagan, I was warmly welcomed by our entire TK team, but I can say without a doubt that our team of volunteers is our best-kept (not so secret) secret! Their passion is palpable, and you can feel they have a genuine love for Kelowna—working alongside the Community Specialist volunteers brings me immense joy.
To celebrate National Volunteer Week and thank our team, we will be hosting several events throughout the week, including:
- Wine tasting at Gray Monk Winery.
- A coffee social and picnic at Mission Creek Regional Park.
- High tea with Ethereal Tea and Confections.
In conjunction with National Tourism Week, we will also host an Open House at the Kelowna Visitor Centre on Friday, April 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The public is invited to drop in to learn more about Tourism Kelowna's work; volunteers will also be onsite to answer questions about our volunteer program.
If you want to learn more about our volunteer program, please contact me at meghan@tourismkelowna.com or (250) 861-1515 ext. 208.
