This project will strengthen our organization’s capacity to serve the community by expanding volunteer recruitment and engagement. Over a 52-week period, the museum will hire a Senior Volunteer Coordinator to enhance volunteer management, organize appreciation events, and promote inclusion for senior volunteers. By fostering intergenerational engagement and recognizing the valuable contributions of seniors, the project will expand the museum’s volunteer base and strengthen community connections.
Building on the success of our 2024 education programs—which reached more than 900 children—the museum aims to broaden its impact with expanded programming for both children and adults. Volunteers, particularly retired seniors with educational experience, will be instrumental in developing and delivering these programs. They will also assist with essential collections management activities, including cataloguing, artifact photography, and digitizing materials to improve public access.
The project will formalize volunteer recruitment and management practices, making it easier to attract, train, and retain participants. It will also establish a volunteer-led mentoring program where senior volunteers mentor new or younger volunteers, helping them integrate into the museum’s activities and fostering a sense of community.
The anticipated outcome is a stronger, more diverse volunteer network that enables the museum to offer more events, programs, and services. Volunteers will gain meaningful opportunities to contribute, build skills, and connect with others. Ultimately, this project will create lasting improvements in the museum’s operations and ensure its continued relevance and success within the community.
This project addresses a critical need for a dedicated Volunteer Coordinator—a role that cannot be sustained by our current volunteer base alone.
The museum’s Board of Directors, composed entirely of volunteers, has identified the urgent need for a paid position to manage and strengthen our volunteer program. Apart from the Director/Curator and seasonal student staff, all museum operations rely on volunteers who already contribute approximately 2,500 hours per year to preserve and share our region’s history.
Establishing a paid Senior Volunteer Coordinator will relieve pressure on existing volunteers, enhance recruitment and training efforts, and improve coordination of daily activities and fundraising initiatives. This position will ensure that volunteers receive the support they need to contribute effectively and feel valued for their efforts.
Community members and local organizations have expressed strong encouragement for this initiative, recognizing the importance of sustained volunteer engagement to the museum’s success. Their feedback underscores the shared commitment to preserving local heritage and expanding access to cultural and educational experiences.
Ultimately, this project will strengthen the museum’s foundation by supporting its volunteers—the heart of our organization. By investing in this key role, we will enhance the museum’s long-term sustainability, broaden community involvement, and ensure that our organization continues to thrive as a vital cultural resource.
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LOTS of opportunities with this! Looking forward to participating.
About time! Need more of this.
The Heritage Center is a Strategic Partner of the City of Pembroke. This Project is a great initiative to assist the entire community.
Heritage Centre is a perfect place for Senior outreach and activities. I have seen first hand the joy that is created when Seniors visit, tour, and participate!
This will be a great way to get people involved! The Heritage Centre has so many fun things to do!