Diane Campbell began volunteering when she moved to Sooke back in 1994. She said she did it because she didn’t know anyone and was a good way to meet people. That was close to 20 years ago and she is still at it.
Campbell is volunteering for two non-profit organizations in Sooke, the Loan Cupboard and Contact Transportation. Each of these groups relies on good souls to hand out medical aids and drive people. The medical aids, things like wheelchairs, are loaned to those who need them for the short term or for those who cannot afford to purchase them. The transportation end transports people to doctor and medical appointments in Victoria.
“The older people don’t want to drive all the way into Jubilee,” said Campbell.
It’s a vital and much appreciated service and this summer it’s been tough, said Campbell. Volunteer drivers are getting older themselves and can no longer put in the time and effort they once did. So, new drivers and volunteers are needed.
Those who volunteer to drive people need to have a good driving record, $2 million in liability insurance and must be willing to undergo a police record check. The drivers are compensated for their gas.
It should be emphasized that this is not a full time volunteer position.
The Contact Loan Cupboard, located at the Sooke Community Hall, lends out medical equipment. They are also in a struggle finding volunteers. They don’t have to go through any record checks or carry insurance, they just hand out the equipment.
“We need volunteers badly,” said president Linda Nex.
To volunteer for Contact Transportation, call Diane Campbell at 250-642-3113. To help out at the Contact Loan Cupboard call Jan Watson at 250-642-2951.