Oak Bay Volunteer Services

with Renee Lorme-Gulbrandsen- Executive Director By Lesley Cobus

I know Oak Bay Volunteers has been a valued part of the Oak Bay Community for a long time. How many years has it been operating?

Oak Bay Volunteers started in 1977 and has been operating for 44 years. In the mid-1970s the municipality did a needs survey of Oak Bay residents. The respondents communicated the need for various supports in the community and as a result Oak Bay Volunteers was created.

Who do you serve in the community?

Our mandate is to serve anyone in need in Oak Bay. Due to the high senior’s demographic in the community, we serve mainly seniors. We also provide services to people living with mental and physical disabilities. In the future I would like to provide opportunities for services and programs that support youth and young families.

What are your most popular services?

Drives to medical appointments, banking and recreational programs are popular services. Social and wellness check phone calls have replaced in-person visits during the pandemic. Walks in the community are also popular, along with outside visits for those less mobile. We also have a grocery shopping and delivery service for residents that are unable to get out and do their own shopping. Light gardening, personalized income tax service for low-income residents, and snow removal are also popular services.

What kind of volunteer roles do you have available?

We have positions available for drivers, shoppers, phone callers, walking companions, visitors, light gardening, and our snow angelssnow removal team.

Monterey Recreation Centre is excited to have Oak Bay Volunteers on site. How are you enjoying your new location?

The move to Monterey has opened opportunities for community engagement and cooperation. It makes sense for Oak Bay Volunteers and Monterey Centre to be at the same location as we both serve seniors. Our new location is very accessible for people with wheelchairs, walkers and scooters. Staff and Volunteers have more space to meet and collaborate. We love our new office furnishings. We invite Oak Bay residents to drop in and say hello.

What is the best way for Oak Bay residents to get in touch with Oak Bay Volunteers?

The best way to get in touch with us is to call 250-595-1034. Our office is open Monday-Friday from 9:00am to 4:00pm. We close for lunch from 12:00 to 1:00pm.