Thank you, esteemed members of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities, for providing us with the opportunity to share our insights on intergenerational volunteerism.

Intergenerational volunteerism is not just a philosophy. It is a daily reality in the heart of our operations. The Central Okanagan Food Bank serves as a meeting ground where individuals from all walks of life converge to make a collective impact. Through these interactions, connections are forged, relationships are built and the diversity that enriches our community is celebrated.

Each generation brings a unique perspective and skill set to volunteer positions that impact their fellow volunteers, the organization they are working with and the community at large. It's this diversity that evokes real and impactful change in our communities, and we see this daily.

Youth volunteers bring a dynamic and fresh perspective to organizations like ours through their energy, enthusiasm and willingness to embrace innovation. Their open-mindedness and adaptability make them valuable assets, as they often approach challenges with creativity and a willingness to try new approaches. Additionally, young volunteers tend to be tech-savvy, bringing a digital fluency that can enhance organizational efficiency and outreach efforts.

The passion and idealism of youth can inject new life into projects and initiatives, inspiring others and fostering a positive organizational culture. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences contribute to a rich tapestry of ideas and solutions. Moreover, young volunteers often have a deep connection to contemporary issues, enabling organizations to stay relevant and responsive to evolving societal needs.

For young adults, volunteering offers opportunities to develop and enhance their professional skills. They can gain experience in leadership, communication, project management and teamwork, which are valuable in both personal and professional spheres. Additionally, interpersonal skills such as empathy, cultural sensitivity and adaptability are often honed through volunteer experiences, contributing to well-rounded personal development.

As middle-aged adults engage in volunteer work, they bring a wealth of expertise and a strong sense of responsibility toward community development. This age group often finds fulfillment in applying their skills in novel ways, contributing not only to the success of the volunteer organization but also to their personal growth. Volunteering becomes a platform for continuous learning and a means to diversify their skill set, creating a positive ripple effect that extends beyond individual well-being.

The impact of this intergenerational collaboration on our senior volunteers is profound. Beyond the tangible contributions to the Central Okanagan Food Bank, seniors experience enhanced socialization and a sense of purpose. Engaging in volunteer activities has shown to reduce feelings of isolation, improve mental well-being and foster a strong sense of belonging.

Moreover, the act of volunteering contributes to the physical well-being of our senior volunteers, who make up an impressive 60% of our overall volunteer base. It promotes mobility, encourages an active lifestyle and reinforces the idea that age is not a barrier to meaningful community involvement. Seniors, through dedicated service, not only receive essential support but also find joy in the connections and empowerment that come with being an integral part of our volunteer family. As seniors bring their wealth of experience, they become essential mentors, offering valuable guidance to our younger volunteers.

This collaboration helps our youth develop necessary skills like problem solving, communication and leadership, crucial for their personal and professional growth. This intergenerational teamwork fosters empathy and understanding among our young volunteers, acting as a bridge that nurtures a sense of community and dispels generational gaps.

The intergenerational aspect of volunteering not only enhances the impact on community projects but also forges connections that withstand the test of time. Whether it's the exuberance of youth, the strategic acumen of middle-aged individuals or the seasoned wisdom of elders, each age cohort complements the others, creating a holistic and sustainable approach to community service. In this way, volunteering becomes a powerful tool for fostering unity, understanding and a shared commitment to build a better, more compassionate society.

Volunteerism is a transformative force that not only strengthens community but also enriches the lives of individuals. By recognizing its value and embracing collaboration across generations, we lay the foundation for a more inclusive, resilient and compassionate society. Together, we can create a legacy of positive change that transcends age boundaries and fosters a spirit of co-operation for the betterment of all.

In this sphere of volunteerism, we observe a dynamic relationship—