International Volunteer Year
Proclamation
As we proclaim 2026 as International Volunteer Year in Dryden, we’re celebrating the people who help make our city stronger every day. From local service organizations to community volunteers who support events, programs, youth, seniors, and neighbours in need—your time and care make a real difference.
Want to get involved? There are City of Dryden committees and boards in need of members this October. We encourage residents to consider applying for a position on one or more of the following:
- City of Dryden Working Circle
- Committee of Adjustment & Property Standards
- Dryden OPP Detachment Board 1
- Dryden Public Library Board
- Dryden Tourism Development Board
- Museum Advisory Board
To apply, visit: www.dryden.ca/your-government/committees-and-boards/
Help shape Dryden’s future by stepping forward and sharing your voice. Keep an eye out for applications to open for committee and board members this fall. And thank you to all those who dedicate their time and energy to making a difference in our community.
WHEREAS 73% of Canada contributes their time through formal and informal volunteer roles, giving approximately 4.1 billion volunteer hours annually, strengthening belonging, well‑being, equity, and resilience; and
WHEREAS volunteers in Dryden ignite impact every day—mentoring youth, supporting isolated residents, welcoming newcomers, advancing equity, caring for community spaces, responding to emergencies, and building strong neighbourhoods; and
WHEREAS volunteers in Dryden continue to demonstrate generosity, compassion, creativity, and leadership, strengthening the social fabric and advancing efforts toward a more just, inclusive, and connected community; and
WHEREAS the volunteers of Dryden represent diverse ages, backgrounds, cultures, identities, and lived experiences, each bringing unique energy and perspective that ignites meaningful change; and
WHEREAS the collective contributions of volunteers ensure that Dryden remains a welcoming, connected, and thriving place to live, work, learn, and play; and
WHEREAS volunteer involving organizations in Dryden rely on volunteers whose dedication and enthusiasm ignite essential programs, cultural events, and community supports; and
WHEREAS we encourage people in Dryden to explore ways of giving back, to find your thing, and to engage in creating a strong and resilient community through volunteer action;
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Jack Harrison, on behalf of Dryden City Council, do hereby proclaim 2026 as International Volunteer Year in Dryden. I encourage all residents to celebrate and thank the people whose dedication ignites meaningful change and strengthens our community.
