The South Shore is known for their volunteer spirit. In communities all across this area there are hundreds of people giving back in some way each and every week and making a difference in people’s lives. They are fire-fighting, teaching, entertaining, raising money, driving, cooking, serving and more. Volunteerism is a vital part to building and maintaining our healthy communities and healthy lives. Once a month we feature someone on the South Shore who is volunteering their time in some way to make our community and lives stronger. Simple Local Life and Gow’s Home Hardware are proud to recognize this month’s “Giving Back” Recipient…Devin Oakes from Conquerall Mills.
Photo by Heidi Jirotka Photography
Devin is a busy Grade 11 student from Park View Education Centre who holds down a part-time job and still manages to dedicate a considerable amount of time each week to volunteering. Music is definitely one of Devin’s passions and he uses his talents and time in various ways. He plays tenor saxophone in the Bridgewater Fire Department Band attending weekly rehearsals as well as participating in their parades, concerts and community events. When he’s not working, he also helps out the BFD Band by serving at their monthly breakfasts.
photo by Cat Montgomery
In keeping with the music theme, Devin also spends one morning a week at Hebbville Academy with music teacher Mrs. Strong, helping with Senior Band, as well as assisting his Park View Education Centre Music teacher Mr. Leonard, teaching younger guitar students.
Devin also enjoys activities with his Youth Group, like visiting seniors and participating in random acts of kindness.
With school, work and his other volunteer commitments, Devin doesn’t have as much time as he would like, but also really enjoys helping out at Souls Harbour Rescue Mission in Bridgewater.
Devin makes volunteering a priority simply by marking those things on his calendar setting his mind on doing it. They are already in his routine so he just tries not to plan anything during those times. He says “I enjoy volunteering because I know in my heart it’s a good thing to do. I enjoy helping people and making them smile, and being part of the community.”
Thank you Devin for all you do and for giving back to your community! 🙂
Founded in 1848, Gow’s has been serving the residents of Bridgewater as one of the oldest established businesses in the community. Gow’s Home Hardware is the proud sponsor of the “Giving Back” profile.
Do you know someone who “Gives Back”? Please consider nominating someone here.
