Fontbonne Ministries Honours its Volunteers

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"A volunteer's conundrum: Is it what I give to the program?
Or, what the program gives to me?"

Sixty-seven people attended the Volunteer Appreciation Brunch on Sunday, May 1st at Fontbonne Place and celebrated with the Sisters involved in the ministries, pictured above. The event offered the volunteers of all Fontbonne Ministries programs a chance to socialize, gather for brunch and hear from Fontbonne Ministries' Board Chair, Sister Thérèse Meunier, and the Sister-Directors of each program. Another cause for celebration was the fact that the Sisters of St. Joseph are marking 160 years of ministry in Canada this year.

"Volunteering here is a very humbling and life-giving experience."

Volunteers were invited to contribute comments on their experience, and some of their words are included in italics.

"Village Mosaic is an inspiration to me because I see what
a difference it makes in peoples' lives and the joy it brings them.
I also feel very blessed to be a part of it."

Sister Thérèse summed up her gratitude for the volunteers' work in this way, "So, on this feast of St. Joseph the Worker, one who gave of his time and talents for his family, I thank you on behalf of the Board, for the work you do. I thank you for making a difference in your own lives and in the lives of others. I thank you for being the wheels and motor of Fontbonne Ministries. AND I thank you especially for being the heart and soul of Fontbonne Ministries."

"Like the ‘Mustard Seed' grows, I too have grown spiritually and more
caring since becoming a volunteer. It's truly a unique experience."

"What a fabulous place 791 Queen St. is. The vertical mosaic: Clients,
volunteers, staff... a column of enjoyment and commitment."

Directors distributed a gift to each volunteer and then, with many goodbyes, the brunch was over.

By Gisela Côté