Executive Director, Peter Rozeluk

Mission Services of London (MSL) begins the celebration of its volunteers with an acknowledgement that MSL does not and cannot exist without the faithful service of hundreds of volunteers each year throughout the entrire organization. Indeed, during its 68 year existence, thousands upon thousands of our London neighbours have made our community a lovely, welcoming place as they have shared the vision of a caring community.

A web article published by HelpGuide suggests that “the benefits of volunteering are enormous to you, your family, and your community.” Furthermore, “volunteering offers vital help to people in need, worthwhile causes, and the community, but the benefits can be even greater for you, the volunteer. Volunteering and helping others can reduce stress, combat depression, keep you mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose.”

I believe that a significant part of our social safety net in Canada rests not with the government but with community, not with programming but in personal relationships, and not with measured metrics but with caring contact.

And I know that our volunteers care, and are the key to supporting and serving thousands of Londoners through our various services. Volunteers, are indeed the sine qua non of Mission Services of London.

Graduates of Quintin Warner House (QWH) volunteer by returning and offering peer support and encouragement to men currently staying at QWH. Board members spend time just “hanging out” and chatting with men at Men’s Mission. Former members of the Women’s Auxiliary provide customer service in the store. University students share their skills in our Finance department. Families in church “life groups” share evenings together sorting in the store warehouse.

All of these acts of service provide tremendous encouragement and comfort to everyone around them, and MSL has a volunteer position for you, for singles, couples, families.

Mission Services of London volunteers, loving God, loving London, loving people.

Written by Peter Rozeluk, Executive Director