BWG Volunteer Appreciation 2026

On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00p.m. volunteers will be invited to the Bradford Community Hub at 177 Church Street for a Volunteer Appreciation event. The event will include refreshments, awards and a presentation of certificates of appreciation from the Mayor & Council. Volunteers in the Recreation & Culture Department has volunteered with the town over the past year with events, aquatics, youth programs or the Sidekick Buddy Programs.  

The Event Volunteer Program started in 2017 and has established a group of volunteers that assist with various community events in Bradford West Gwillimbury. Through the program, the Town has been able to expand events and provide a higher level of service to the community. Volunteers in the program assist with a variety of tasks during events such as assisting with event set up and take down, crafts, tracking attendance, distributing information and collecting event surveys. Hours spent volunteering can be used towards Community Involvement. 

Volunteers in the Aquatic Volunteer Program are individuals who are in the process of getting their certifications to become a lifeguard and swim instructor. The Aquatic Volunteers Program allows them to develop valuable skills and enhance their aquatic experience along with providing an asset to our swimming lesson programs.  

Youth programs create safe, inclusive spaces where young people can build confidence, develop life skills, and connect with peers through engaging activities and mentorship. Volunteers support Youth Program Assistants by helping facilitate activities, engaging participants, providing encouragement, and contributing to a positive, welcoming environment. 

The Sidekick Buddy Program is a program that recruits and trains volunteers to provide additional support to children in general registered programs to promote positive participation. Sidekick Volunteers promote listening and following instructions, friendship building, and redirection in the program space.  

The Social Drop In 55+ is a volunteer-based, drop-in program for seniors 55yrs+. It offers a space where seniors connect every Tuesday at the BWG Leisure Centre. Volunteers help make the space inviting by preparing coffee and tea, welcoming new faces, greeting guests and organizing card games. 

The Volunteer Appreciation event is an opportunity to formally recognize and thank the volunteers for their exceptional efforts.