National Volunteer Week 2022 reminds us of the critical importance of volunteers in our society and the countless benefits that come when individual citizens make the all-important decision to put their empathy into action. The pandemic of the past two years, in particular, has brought into focus the essential role that volunteers play in making our communities healthy, caring and inclusive for everyone. Even the smallest gesture helps. While the needs may seem overwhelming, we can each make a difference simply by starting where we are, using what we have and doing what we can. When you volunteer, you are doing so much more than lending a helping hand. You are also spreading hope.

As Her Majesty the Queen’s representative in Alberta, I offer my most heartfelt thanks to our province’s hardworking volunteers and voluntary organizations who contribute so much to the quality of life we all enjoy.

Her Honour, the Honourable Salma Lakhani AOE, B.Sc., LLD (hon)

Lieutenant Governor of Alberta