When it comes to volunteering and ‘volunteerism’, there are few who are more passionate than John Van Bastelaar in Port Elgin (Saugee Shores).
Van Bastelaar has held many volunteer positions. A former Mayor of Port Elgin before amalgamation, Van Bastelaar, and his wife June, have dedicated their retirement time to a broad scope of volunteering.
From volunteering at the local Salvation Army Food Bank to organizing the Huron Shore Run in support of the local hospital, from serving on the local Rotary Club to providing ‘meals on wheels’ for seniors, Van Bastelaar believes in giving back to the community.
At the March meeting of Saugeen Shores Men’s Probus club, as guest speaker Van Bastelaar pointed out the many values of volunteering.
“When I first came to Port Elgin, we had so much fun and we never left. My main purpose today is to talk about volunteerism,” he said. “Is it dying in our society today? It’s a big topic but I am a firm believer in all the volunteer services in Grey Bruce.”
Van Bastelaar explained the meaning of volunteerism: helping other people willingly without being forced or paid to do it; spending unpaid time for the benefit of others.
“I really believe that volunteering is the key part of a community and it is not the same for everyone,” he said. “There are different types and different levels.”
According to Van Bastelaar, there are three different types of volunteerism: leadership, that encourages people to use their skills; workers who do not want to take on leadership roles but just want to participate as volunteers; individuals who can help in their own way such as helping a neighbour or simply being a friend.
“It’s better for everyone to just do a little bit. I am really impressed with our community because of the volunteerism that happens here. The support from Council is phenomenal. It doesn’t matter what idea you come up with or what age, they will support you and support you for free,” said Van Bastelaar. “From Police to Fire and all our first responders, they are unbelievable.”
He pointed out that various events, such as Pumpkinfest, are supported by volunteers for one reason … “for the community that makes us all grow together.”
“Volunteering is not age related and I know it’s not for everyone but most people will gain from it and most get out of volunteering than they put into it.”
While there are those who cannot or do not want to commit their time, it was pointed out that donating funds is another way of volunteering as it goes back into the community in one way or another.
“As a volunteer at our local food bank,” he said, “it’s a wonderful feeling knowing that we are helping those who are most appreciative for the help. This town is one of the most generous in Bruce County.”
According to Van Bastelaar, while the town runs many programs, most activities and clubs for seniors and young people are run by volunteers.
“Volunteerism can just be helping someone next door. Being nice or kind to someone each day doesn’t have to be onerous and can help your life and how you feel.”
A huge component in the community is Home and Community Support Services (HCSS) of which Van Bastelaar is a volunteer. “It’s an organization that answers the needs of many in the community and enables people to remain in their own homes as they age and included in HCSS is the ‘Day Away‘ program.”
“I am just trying to highlight what being a volunteer is,” said Van Bastelaar, “and I would just like everyone to go home and think about what volunteering could mean to you.”
