A large component of our volunteer program is the social aspect; many of our volunteers, young and old, love to get together in a social setting, ideally when there's an opportunity for more learning.
Twice a year, we offer recognition in the form of bus trips to other museums, art galleries and cultural and science-based organizations throughout Alberta. When space permits, we invite our volunteers to bring along a guest.
It's always a special time when volunteers can introduce family and friends to staff and other volunteers. They share stories of their volunteer roles, the tasks they complete, and the good times they have.
As a bonus, we often arrange a "behind the scenes" tour with our peers in volunteer management, so family and friends get to see and learn about cultural and collection management that very few experience.
After a full day of laughing and learning, our volunteer family is usually expanded, as we often have family and friends clamoring to sign up and volunteer with us!