Final-Staff ThankYous2026

Dear Administrative Volunteers,

Data entry, folding, cutting, repairs, maintenance, editing documents, power washing, painting, filing, organizing, updating resources – oh let me count the ways in which you are a valuable part of our Admin team. We are grateful for your kindness, smiling faces, and willingness to help in any way. Your contribution is meaningful in more ways than we can express. Thank you for all you do! ~ Bonnie Brown, Administration & Client Services Manager

Dear Thrift Shop Volunteers,

Today is a celebration in appreciation of all that you do here at SOS Thrift Shop. You make us smile, you inspire us to be better, and we are so very grateful for the time, care, and energy you so generously give.

Quite simply, we could not operate our Thrift Shop without you—and the funds raised here are the primary source of funding for all SOS programs and services in our community. Your dedication makes a real and lasting difference, reaching far beyond the Thrift Shop walls.

Volunteers are truly the backbone of our community, and we treasure your commitment, compassion, and generosity. A heartfelt and sincere thank you! ~ SOS Thrift Shop Management Team, Supervisors and Staff

Thank You SOS Volunteers!

Dear Medical Appointment Transportation Volunteers,

There are many people in our community who simply cannot get to the appointments that safeguard their health, their wellbeing, and sometimes even their hope. Some have no access to public transportation. Others cannot afford a taxi. And many have no one in their lives who can drive them when they need help the most. In those moments, you step in. Quietly. Generously. Compassionately.

You show up at a senior’s doorstep, offering not just a ride, but comfort, dignity, and reassurance. Whether you’re driving someone to the Oceanside Health Centre or supporting them in getting to a physiotherapy appointment, you are giving them the gift of independence — the ability to care for their health and to remain living safely at home, where they feel most grounded and connected.

A simple chat in the car, a moment of kindness, a smile, these small gestures stay with our clients long after the appointment is over. Your gift of time, your generosity of spirit, and your genuine care for each SOS client create ripples far beyond what you may ever see.

Thank you for bringing your compassion into the lives of those who need it most. With profound appreciation, ~ Jolene Swanson, Medical Appointment Transportation Service Coordinator

Messages of Thanks from SOS Staff

Thank You! Dear Child, Youth and Family Program Volunteers,

For every act of kindness volunteers show, from busy kitchens to seams stitched new, mentors, helpers, baby holders too, your love lifts every child, youth, and family through.

Your presence in our Child, Youth & Family Programs creates something truly special—a safe and welcoming space where children and youth feel seen, supported, and free to be themselves. Because of you, friendships are formed, laughter fills the rooms, and families experience connection, joy, and a sense of belonging. Through lovingly created snacks and meals, caring mentorship, and simple moments of kindness, you help build confidence, resilience, and community every single day. With full hearts, we thank you. ~ SOS Child, Youth & Family Team

Dear Christmas Program Volunteers,

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible Christmas volunteers. Thanks to your efforts, 928 children and 1,154 adults were able to experience the magic of Christmas with dignity in our community. It takes many hands to ensure this program runs smoothly. From set-up to take down and everything in between: stocking, re-stocking, organizing, reception, registration, client support, and distribution, we could not have done it without you. Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and care. Christmas was indeed brighter in our community because of you. ~ Bonnie Brown, Administration & Client Services Manager

Dear Christmas Stocking Volunteers,

As this was my first year organizing the delivery of Christmas Stockings, I want to thank you for your support. The stockings, generously assembled by local Newcomers Clubs, brought smiles, comfort, and joy to seniors who were alone or isolated during the holidays. As one recipient wrote, “I trust you know how important you are.” That message captures exactly how we feel at SOS. You helped bring a touch of Christmas magic to our community, and we are deeply grateful. ~ Sarah Costen, Volunteer Relations Coordinator

Dear Income Tax Volunteers,

Though I have only just recently jumped into this role, I am awed by your commitment of time, effort, and energy supporting this Income Tax Program. I am grateful for your wisdom and experience and everything you do to keep the program running successfully. Thank you for showing up every day and helping in so many ways! ~ Scott Beam, Income Tax Program Coordinator

Dear Oceanside Better at Home Volunteers,

Every day, I see firsthand how deeply our seniors are affected by the rising cost of living. Many are having to make heartbreaking choices — staying home when they long to be with others, postponing the small self‑care moments, and stretching every dollar just to get by. In these moments, it is your kindness, your presence, and your willingness to show up that brings comfort, dignity, and connection back into their lives. You may not always realize the magnitude of your impact, but I see it every day. You make life safer, gentler, and more hopeful for those who rely on you. I am reminded every single day that SOS is blessed with the most extraordinary volunteers in the world. Thank you, from the very bottom of my heart, for the compassion you bring to residents of our community. Thank you, SOS Volunteers — you are the heart of what we do. With deepest gratitude, ~ Jolene Swanson, Oceanside Better at Home Program Coordinator

Dear Meals On Wheels Volunteers,

Every week, your generosity helps older adults and people with health challenges remain independent in their own homes. Because of your commitment, clients in District 69 received over 11,000 nourishing meals between April 2025 and March 2026—meals that support their well being. From prepping, checking and packing meal containers in the kitchen to delivering meals with warmth and kindness, each of you contributes something essential. Your visits often provide connection, reassurance, and a friendly moment in someone’s day, and that human touch often matters just as much as the meal itself. Your dedication strengthens food security in our community and ensures that no client is left without support.

Thank you for bringing care, compassion, and reliability to everything you do.

We are deeply grateful for each one of you. ~ Darlene Genoway, Meals On Wheels Coordinator