Celebrating Volunteerism – Bill

Volunteer Champion – Bill Urie

Growing up, Bill Urie always had a social conscience. He remembers the support he and his family received and knows the importance of paying it forward.

His social conscience also came from a feeling to address a need and do something for his community – whether by taking on a large role or a smaller one.

That feeling led him to volunteering. Bill has volunteered as a sports coach – basketball, soccer, track and field – as well as with the Hamilton Olympic Club, the Around the Bay road race, scouting and other events. He’s also involved with Delta United Church.

Then, eight years ago, he heard about the opportunity to volunteer with Wesley and took it on. “Wesley brought a new dimension to that,” he said.

He’s mainly been involved with the annual Holiday Store. He brought his problem-solving skills and life experiences.

Bill remembers his first Holiday Store experience when he worked with Wesley staff and volunteers to organize the store setup.

Over the years, Bill has taken on the greeter role. He’s often the one at the door welcoming people into the Holiday Store. “The first face of Wesley,” he calls it.

He knows the importance of being the greeter. He sees how it puts people at ease. Bill remembers times when clients would come into the Holiday Store anxious. By the time they leave, he saw they weren’t anxious anymore.

Being a greeter is part of his skill set. He gained empathy through his life experience. He knows to treat people with dignity and patience. He wants to make them feel as comfortable as possible.

“I’m here to help,” he tells those entering the store. He does so with friendliness. He’s there to assist them.

When Bill saw familiar clients over the years, they recognized him and were happy to see him.

He enjoys interacting with other volunteers. He sees how they bring different skills but are all there for one purpose – to provide the service.

For as much as Bill has brought to Wesley, he also thinks about what his experience has given him. He’s gained confidence in his involvement with the Holiday Store – built from his first year onwards.

It’s the confidence that comes from his ability to be part of the solution. Bill felt confident in dealing with different situations and assisting clients.

Bill has also gained empathy and understanding for those who are struggling financially. He brings a caring attitude – for people and the organization – which shapes how he handles situations.

By the time the Holiday Store is over every year, Bill feels a great sense of satisfaction from being part of something that’s really helped people.

It’s that feeling of giving back to the community. It’s part of his personality. “It’s time well spent,” he said.

Bill wants to encourage others to volunteer. He knows how important it is to give back to the community but also the value the experience provides.

He knows from personal experience the value he’s brought to Wesley and gained from it. “So as long as I’m healthy, I want to continue,” he said.

The impact of the work done by volunteers like Bill is significant. For more information, visit Wesley.ca