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MP's REPORT: The Importance of Volunteering



By Kyle Peterson, MP

Newmarket-Aurora

As I write this column, the first Budget of this government is about to be released. Yet, I will leave commenting on that Budget for another day.

Since my last column, I have had the opportunity to take part in a number of community events, and I thoroughly enjoy participating in these types of events. They shine a light on the many positive organizations and people we are lucky to have in our community.

Recently, I was proud to participate in the 360⁰ Experience in support of 360⁰Kids programs and services for at-risk and homeless youth in York Region.

I spent a night as a homeless youth, and had to make my way around various shelters, seeking warmth in coffee shops, and navigating local transit in York Region.

I spent the night sleeping outside in the snow, with only a tarp and sleeping bag.

This experience was eye-opening for me. Homelessness is a real issue right here. Fortunately, when the night was over, I could return to my home, which is not an option for so many homeless youth. ‎

I commend 360⁰Kids, York Region and Michael Braithwaite, Executive Director at 360⁰kids, for the great work they are doing. Nearly $100,000 was raised during the 360⁰ Experience, which I and many others took part in.

To find out more about this organization, please visit www.360kids.ca.

Another one of the many great events I was fortunate enough to attend was Neighbourhood Network`s Collaboration Day.

Neighbourhood Network is a fantastic organization based in Aurora which, among other things, connects volunteers with organizations.

I was honoured to take part in its government panel discussion, and hope that I was able to contribute in some small way to the event. As often is the case, I was overwhelmed by the quality of the organizations and people who take part in this event.

Congratulations to Neighbourhood Network for organizing a successful meeting. To get involved, please visit neighbourhoodnetwork.org.

Neighbourhood Network and 360⁰Kids York Region are two examples of the many organizations here in our community that are doing great work, and also highlight the importance of volunteerism.

In April, we will be celebrating National Volunteer Week, between April 10 and 16.

I urge you to consider getting involved in volunteering. There are so many ways to do so in Aurora. You will be helping groups and people that need the help - but you will also feel good about doing it.

Please do not hesitate to contact our office for further information, or for any other reason.

You can reach us at:

16600 Bayview Avenue, Suite 202

Newmarket, Ontario

 

 


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