At VON, our vision is simple but powerful: every life lived to the fullest. It’s a belief that guides everything we do—and in Sarnia-Lambton, it comes to life every day through the efforts of our incredible volunteers.
Whether it’s helping an older adult stay active and independent, bringing joy and connection through a friendly visit, supporting someone living with memory loss, or giving a family caregiver the precious gift of rest—our volunteers are at the heart of this vision. They ensure that people in our community feel supported, respected, and empowered to live well, no matter their age or health condition.
This National Volunteer Week, we celebrate and thank the individuals who give their time, compassion, and energy to help others live more fully. At VON Sarnia-Lambton, we are so grateful for every volunteer who shows up with a smile, a kind word, or a helping hand—because in doing so, they are helping to build a healthier, more connected community for all.
Companionship That Enriches Lives
A full life is one filled with connection—and that’s exactly what our Volunteer Visiting Program provides. For many seniors in Sarnia-Lambton, social isolation is a real challenge. VON volunteers step in to help bridge that gap, offering regular, friendly visits that provide companionship and conversation.
These one-on-one visits—whether over the phone or in person—are a bright spot in the week for many clients. They are a chance to reminisce, laugh, share stories, and simply enjoy the presence of another person. And while the time spent may seem simple, the impact is profound. Volunteers help reduce loneliness, support emotional well-being, and remind people that they are not alone.
By offering connection and kindness, our Volunteer Visitors are helping people live more fully, with dignity, meaning, and joy.
Move well to be strong
Living life to the fullest means staying active and feeling strong. That’s why VON’s SMART (Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together) exercise classes are so important—and why our volunteer instructors are such valued leaders.
SMART classes help older adults maintain mobility, balance, and strength in a safe, supportive environment. Led by trained volunteers, these classes happen in community spaces, retirement homes, and seniors’ centres throughout Sarnia-Lambton.
But the benefits go beyond physical health. These classes are also social gatherings where participants form friendships, laugh, and encourage one another. For many, it’s the highlight of the week—and for some, it’s the reason they’re still able to live independently in their own homes.
Our volunteers bring energy, patience, and a genuine love for helping others. And by supporting health and social connection, they’re helping seniors live fuller, more active lives.
Creating Moments of Purpose and Joy
For individuals living with dementia or chronic illness, life can become more limited—but VON’s Adult Day Program opens the door to engagement, community, and meaningful activity.
This program provides a safe, supportive space where clients can participate in music, games, creative activities, and social connection. It also offers a critical break for caregivers who may be balancing 24/7 responsibilities at home.
Volunteers play a vital role in the success of this program. They assist with daily activities, help serve meals, and most importantly—bring warmth, humour, and kindness into the room. Their presence helps clients feel welcomed, respected, and valued, no matter where they are on their health journey.
By helping create joyful, purposeful experiences, our Adult Day Program volunteers are bringing VON’s vision to life—ensuring each person feels empowered to live fully and with dignity.
Why Volunteer with VON?
When you volunteer with VON, you become part of a mission that’s bigger than yourself. You help build a community where people are supported to live well, regardless of age or circumstance. You help create moments of connection, movement, comfort, and relief. You help make VON’s vision of every life lived to the fullest a reality.
Our volunteers tell us time and time again that the experience is deeply rewarding. They make new friends, feel connected to their community, and find joy and purpose in giving back. Whether you’re newly retired, a student, or simply someone with a bit of time to give—there’s a place for you at VON.
We offer flexible opportunities in Sarnia-Lambton and full training to help you feel confident in your role. Whether you have a few hours each week or each month, you can make a difference.
Join Us—We have a role for you!
If you’ve been looking for a meaningful way to give back, this is your moment. You don’t need any special experience—just a kind heart and a desire to help others live well.
To learn more or to apply, visit www.von.ca/en/volunteer and take the first step toward making a difference today.
Thank You
To all our current volunteers: thank you. Your compassion, generosity, and commitment are at the very heart of what we do. Because of you, seniors feel less alone, caregivers feel supported, and lives are lived more fully every day.
And to those considering joining us—know that your time and kindness can change lives. Join us at VON Sarnia-Lambton, and help bring our vision to life: every life lived to the fullest.