Long before we heard of volunteerism, of fund raising campaigns and specific volunteer associations and agencies, the early settlers in this Province lived with the help of others. Before the emphasis was on financial support, time and labour were the currencies of care that helped to sustain life and security in small and isolated communities, in the islands and bays of our land. The spirit and selfless commitment to helping others is ancient, but it has not diminished. It may be changed in our post modern society of e-commerce and satellite emergency locators, but it is still there. We continuously see the evidence of the good deeds of volunteers.
Today is a stellar example.
Over the years, there has been a continuing volunteer effort on the part of Faculty, Staff and Students of the University. From my own experience, I can mention The Monte Carlo Night of the Faculty of Medicine, the volunteer support of MUN Botanical Gardens, The Memorial University Art Gallery now named the Art Gallery of Newfoundland and Labrador, and there are many others. As well, the contribution of the University Community in Corner Brook to many causes in their community is well known. The Student Volunteer Bureau, now a well organized and well run unit, has achieved a significant profile on campus and in the community. It is well known that volunteering is a way of life at Memorial.