It cannot be stressed enough that it is very important for each NCF member to participate in this process. Voter turnout in recent years has dwindled so much that what could be termed a handful of members are making decisions that affect everyone. 2001 will be a pivotal year for the organization and, given the great number of open seats on the Board of Directors, its very future lies in the hands of those who take the time to get involved. Familiarization and training The NCF offers familiarization training to members who want or need it on a weekly basis. On Tuesday afternoons, members can go to the St. Laurent branch of the Ottawa Public Library at 515 C t Street.
Volunteers are on hand to answer questions and give demonstrations.
Public access computers are available at most Ottawa Public Library branches. Those wishing to make use of these computers should ask the librarian where they can be found. Finally, as 2001 is the International Year of the Volunteer, it should be noted that the NCF honours one volunteer each month by designating him or her as Volunteer of the Month. At the end of every year, the Board of Directors awards certificates to all who are honoured throughout the previous 12 months. Mike Mason is a founding member of the National Capital FreeNet.