Volunteer Appreciation with the Slocan Valley Rail Trail Society
When they hit retirement, Gary Yakimchuk and his wife, Val Mayes, moved to the Slocan Valley, in the West Kootenay Region of British Columbia. They very quickly became involved in their community.
“I believe in giving back to my community,” says Gary. “That is why I choose to volunteer.” And volunteer he did: Gary has filled roles as a volunteer board member for Castlegar Search and Rescue; been a board member for the Rural Alternatives Research and Training Society (RARTS); and acted as the West Kootenay provincial representative for the BC Search and Rescue Association.
In 2018, Gary joined the Slocan Valley Rail Trail Society as a board director, and he has continued in a volunteer capacity on the board for the past eight years.
Photo credit: Ali Becker
‘A vibrant and successful organization’
“I chose to volunteer with the Slocan Valley Rail Trail Society because I saw that it was a vibrant and successful organization where I felt that I could make a positive contribution. I especially enjoy being involved with the Trail Society because I appreciate the benefits of skiing, hiking and enjoying the outdoors on the rail trail,” Gary explains.
Shortly after Gary joined the board, he came forward to help with financial management, taking on the role of treasurer. Helene Dostaler, chairperson with the SVRTS, says that Gary’s attention to detail, organizational skills and understanding of board development led him to refresh the financial policy and procedures with a strong emphasis on accountability.
“Gary then expanded on his treasurer’s role by becoming a key player in developing fundraising opportunities, writing grant proposals with a committee, developing good relationships with funders, managing multiple grants and keeping the board members engaged and up to date. Gary has a knack for always seeking solutions to problems,” Helene says.
Photo credit: Slocan Valley Rail Trail Association
A community celebration for Slocan Valley Rail Trail Society volunteers
Last year, Helene nominated Gary as a recipient of Trans Canada Trail’s volunteer recognition fund, and he was chosen as one of 10 volunteers from across Canada to receive funds for a recognition and celebration event in 2024.
As a quintessential team player, however, Gary felt strongly that the entire core team deserved recognition for all the planning, organizing and physical work that is undertaken on the Slocan Valley Rail Trail each year, so with funds from Trans Canada Trail, the SVRTS organized a celebratory evening at a local community hall, complete with pizza, beverages and local products. Helene says that several volunteers confided in her that they were thrilled to be included.
“Gary’s good humour shines forth in events organized by the SVRTS. He is always ready to lend a hand at annual BBQ events, ski events and fall bike rides. All in all, Gary is a fine example of a valuable, hard-working volunteer. The Slocan Valley Rail Trail Society is lucky to have him amongst our many excellent volunteers!” Helene says.
Photo credit: Mathieu Leblanc
Learn more about Trans Canada Trail’s volunteer recognition program
Main photo credit: Slocan Valley Rail Trail Association
