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A group of more than 100 people attended a ceremony on May 22 outside Two Mountains city hall, where the many residents who donated their time and efforts over the past year were honoured by adding their names to the inner dome of Volunteers Place.
Nearly 100 names of people involved as volunteers in the community were placed next to the 1,500 already inscribed there, thus immortalizing their community actions and involvement.
Selfless efforts
Volunteers Place, considered by many Two Mountains residents to be a very special shrine to local volunteerism, was erected during the 1990s to pay tribute to women, men, young and old, who, through their involvement within the community, have a direct effect on the population’s welfare and improve other citizens’ quality of life.
The ceiling of the landmark structure, which is well-lit at night and visible to all who pass by on Oka Road, is covered with the names of all the volunteers honoured over the years. “These volunteers’ actions directly impact on the population and its well-being,” said Mayor Marc Lauzon, who presided over the ceremony.
‘Thank you’ from Two Mountains
“Voluntary involvement is essential to maintaining the quality of life within a community,” he continued. “These people not only take part in and support the social and community development of our neighbourhoods, but they also participate in creating synergy and vivaciousness within the community.”
“Adding the names to Volunteers’ Place is a way for the City of Two Mountains to recognize the importance of the role these people play in the Deux-Montagnes community and its development,” he said. “The energy displayed by Deux-Montagnes volunteers and support groups sows wealth wherein well-being, solidarity and support are at the heart of social concerns.”
Sun in their hearts
“We’re very happy about what you’re doing and I’m personally proud as president of the Commission for the Family to see what you are doing for all the population,” said Councillor Mario Saint-Charles. As the evening sun shone brightly during the brief ceremony, Saint-Charles added, “The sun is here because all volunteers have a lot of sun in their hearts to give, so the sun is here for you tonight.”
Shirley and Harry Bleeker of Third Avenue were just two of the volunteers whose efforts were recognized. “We’ve been involved in soccer for probably at least 20 years,” she said in an interview. “We’ve been affiliated with the tournament probably since our son was playing.” Their son, Matthew, currently runs the soccer tournament. Over the years, the couple have also done some soccer coaching. Now that they’re older, however, they help out at the tournament mostly on the Labour Day weekend.
Helping out with soccer
“We’re responsible for one of the fields,” she said, adding that they voluntarily register teams and operate a refreshment stand as well. “It’s about three days, from about 7 in the morning to about 9 or 10 at night,” added Harry. Alfred Weippert of Ninth Avenue, another volunteer, was also recognized for his work coaching with the local soccer association. “I don’t really keep track of the hours,” he said, when asked much of his time volunteering takes up.
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