Volunteers have been the life blood of Lumby for decades, but finding people willing to give of their time is increasingly challenging.
The Village of Lumby is concerned that a number of organizations are unable to find volunteers, including the fire department, the museum and the golf course.
Mayor Kevin Acton believes the problem may be generational.
“Our youth are moving north for work or they don’t see the value of these organizations,” he said, adding that without these non-profit groups, many activities would not occur in Lumby.
“Volunteers keep our community moving.”
And there is a financial benefit, particularly if the village had to start paying for paid, full-time firefighters instead of relying on volunteers, who receive a stipend for emergency call-outs and practises.
“It would be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars,” said Acton.
The fire department’s recent spring recruitment campaign was unsuccessful.
“There wasn’t even a phone call,” said fire chief Tony Clayton.
“Our situation is no worse than any other rural department.”
Clayton believes the biggest stumbling block is finding individuals who are interested in being part of a team and serving the community.
“If they have the inclination, they will make the time commitment.”
There are currently 23 firefighters but the number available during a fire can vary depending on work, holidays and illness. That’s why there will be an emphasis to recruit more members in the fall.
“We’re not in trouble but the yellow light is up,” said Clayton.
Acton says the various organizations and the village need to find a way to encourage volunteerism.
“We need to do some education of residents and especially our young people,” he said.
“They don’t understand that there is a responsibility to give back to the community and be part of something.”
