If you are interested in saving lives at work, home and play, Sid Bidfell, Outside Recruitment Officer for the Kelowna Division of Medical First Responders at St. John Ambulance, would like to speak to you.
One of the oldest humanitarian organizations in the world, St. John Ambulance was founded in Canada in 1883 and in British Columbia in 1911. The Kelowna Division provides volunteer first aid services to organizations and events in the Kelowna area. They also work with other departments in Vernon and Penticton and jointly provide services in the Okanagan Valley.
“Our volunteers are at community events like music and sporting events, disaster relief efforts and fundraisers to make sure everyone is having a safe time,” explains Sid. “We provide first aid to anyone in need. Our members receive ongoing first aid training and volunteer to work with others with similar interests. Together we provide valuable health and safety services to our community.”
Although new recruits must have a current CPR-C/AD minimum level first aid certification, ongoing additional training is offered to members at no cost. While volunteers have plenty of flexibility to work their schedules, members are required to volunteer or attend training at least 60 hours per week.
“Volunteering with our organization brings many happy stories, from helping someone in medical need to personal stories,” says Sid proudly. “For just one example, our members are appreciated for their caring and compassion in helping residents of Merritt and the surrounding area during a time of greatest need during the 2021 flooding.”
“We currently have 60 members and have volunteered over 3,600 hours for emergency medical services, immunization centers, community events and responding to emergencies such as fires and floods,” Sid continues. “Our volunteers have the opportunity to network and interact with community members from different backgrounds. Examples include paramedics, students, police officers, business owners, retirees, and selfless people who just want to make a difference. We meet and support Kelowna residents and guests with expertise. Many of our volunteers say that volunteering is a very personal and fulfilling experience.”
If you are interested in volunteering with the St. John Ambulance, contact Sid at recruit.officer.div740@sjabcy.ca or find her listing in the VolunteerConnector on the KCR website at www.kcr.ca.
Dorothee Birker is communications and development coordinator for KCR Community Resources. If you are interested in sharing your volunteer or organization news, please contact Dorothee at dorothee@kcr.ca.
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