Tourism Kelowna is once again celebrating National Volunteer Week (NVW), which runs from April 27 to May 3, 2025. This year's theme, “Volunteers Make Waves,” is all about recognizing the powerful ripple effect that volunteers create in their communities. It recognizes “the power, impact and importance of individual and collective volunteer efforts across Canada. Like a wave, volunteering is movement building.”

Our organization is fortunate and proud to have a dedicated group of 47 Community Specialist volunteers and 17 Board of Director volunteers. Our Board of Directors, made up of experienced industry members, generously donate their time and expertise to support our region's robust and well-connected tourism community, while our Community Specialist volunteers share their knowledge, skills, and welcoming presence with guests.

National Volunteer Week 2025

 

Whether at the YLW Airport Kiosk or at the Kelowna Visitor Centre downtown, you'll see our team of friendly Community Specialist volunteers directing visitors and locals in the right direction and informing them of all the wonderful opportunities available in and around Kelowna. In 2024, this group of volunteers contributed over 3,000 hours to our organization across our Kelowna Visitor Centre, Airport Kiosk, and mobile event support locations, saving Tourism Kelowna nearly $60K 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, "Volunteers Make Waves," and Tourism Kelowna's values, the impact of our volunteers is clear in the waves of kindness and dedication they create. Whether it's offering a warm welcome, sharing local knowledge, or providing support with a caring touch, these small but powerful moments leave a lasting impression. The service and compassion our volunteers provide highlight how tourism can bring people together, creating a welcoming community and a strong sense of belonging.

To celebrate National Volunteer Week this year and thank our team, we will be hosting several events throughout the week, including:

  • A breakfast social at Naked Café.
  • Guided tours of Okanagan Heritage Museum, Okanagan Military Museum, and Okanagan Wine & Orchard Museum.
  • A social held on the patio at the Kelowna Visitor Centre. 
  • Bowling at Okanagan Bowling Club.

Throughout my time as an employee of Tourism Kelowna working closely alongside our group of volunteers, I’ve found their positive energy and passion for the community to be contagious! They do everything with thoughtfulness and welcomed me to my role with such support, honesty, and kindness – it’s clear they truly care about our shared mission to showcase Kelowna as a vibrant and welcoming destination.

If you have questions about Tourism Kelowna's volunteer program or want to learn more about how you can volunteer, connect with me at angelina@tourismkelowna.com.