Giving Has Its Own Rewards For CVCAS Volunteers Bringing community together to enjoy the arts, and fostering creative talents in the region, is only possible because Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society volunteers keep the shows and programs on the road.
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olunteers make the arts happen in the Chemainus Valley. Without their contributions many of the shows and activities available through the CVCAS couldn’t be offered. But what inspires the volunteers themselves, who collect tickets and donations, stack chairs, keep records, set up stages, sit on the Board and carry out hundreds of other tasks necessary to manage and run an organization that puts on dozens of musical performances and festivals each year, offers workshops and circles for writers and musicians and
gives Valley artists a venue to show their works. For most, volunteering is simply a satisfying way of giving and connecting to their community. They understand that ‘bringing community together through the arts’ is more important than ever in the 21st Century – the age of Netflix, Spotify, Facebook, video games… an overwhelming volume of entertainment and information continuously streamed to virtual audiences from distant sources. Supporting arts activities and getting out to meet people who share an interest in the arts, are a couple of the most valuable ‘paybacks’ for volunteers. Local art is essential to a vibrant community, and the Chemainus Valley is home to many artists, whose
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works reflect the landscape and character of the region’s people. Volunteers, including many of the artists themselves, feel good about providing venues where the region can share creative perspectives. Volunteering through CVCAS keeps members informed about local and Island Arts & Cultural activities. And those who sit on the Board of Directors can help identify new opportunities and arts programs for the region. The most gratifying experience for volunteers is seeing audiences and participants enjoying a performance at the Waterwheel Park bandshell, or a work on display at Rainforest Arts, or a story presented through the Valley Voices series. It makes them feel good to have been a part of bringing talents to the community and fostering arts activities. Are you interested in volunteering? The CVCAS welcomes people who want to get involved. Find out more about volunteer opportunities available with the Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society at CVCAS.ca/volunteer. CraigSpenceWriter.ca
