This week is National Volunteer Week, a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible volunteers who help keep the Rotary Centre for the Arts running smoothly every day. This year’s theme, Ignite Volunteerism, speaks to the way individuals inspire action and spark involvement in others, creating a ripple effect that strengthens and connects communities through shared purpose.
Our volunteers are at the heart of what we do, embodying that spirit every day. Through their time, care, and dedication, they help bring arts programming and live experiences to the Kelowna community, while encouraging others to take part and get involved. They are welcoming faces at our doors, supportive hands behind the scenes, and an essential part of creating a space where artists, audiences, and participants feel connected, inspired, and at home.
From performances and productions to community programs, workshops, and fundraising events, our volunteers show up with consistency and enthusiasm. Their support allows us to do more than run events. It allows us to build meaningful connections through the arts.
Beyond their practical contributions, volunteers strengthen the RCA’s relationship with the wider community. They are passionate advocates for the arts, helping make creativity more accessible and ensuring more people feel invited into our spaces. Their energy and commitment play a vital role in building a vibrant, inclusive cultural hub.
Our Front of House and Volunteer Coordinator, Becky Smith, speaks to the importance of National Volunteer Week:
“This week is a time to really celebrate those who volunteer. I am so fortunate I get to work closely with so many amazing volunteers at the Rotary Centre for the Arts. Being able to experience their passion and care has made me a better person and provided me with so many positive experiences that I have a hard time putting into words the impact this has had on me both professionally and personally.”
A Vital Part of the RCA Experience
Our volunteers contribute in countless ways. You might be greeted by them at a performance, guided to your seat with a smile, or supported in one of our community programs and performances such as our monthly Bluegrass Nights, Blues Night, and Jazz Jam. They assist instructors and facilitators with our seasonal visual and performing arts programs, help with event setup and coordination, and even bring seasonal spirit to the RCA through creative decorating and hands-on support.
During our busy holiday season, volunteers helped transform the RCA into a festive space filled with decorated trees and warm, welcoming energy throughout our halls. They also took part in community outreach efforts, including providing a gift wrapping service hosted by Orchard Park Mall and Kelowna Community Resources in exchange for donations, helping us raise support while connecting with the wider community.
As a non-profit organization, this generosity is invaluable. Our volunteers are a living expression of community support, helping ensure the RCA remains a welcoming and accessible space for everyone.
Stories of Impact
We are continually inspired by the experiences and connections our volunteers share: “Getting to volunteer for events that I am unfamiliar with the subject matter or format, it is so interesting to learn about new things! Volunteering allows us to do this in such an inclusive way.”
— Diane, 5-year volunteer
“My favourite moment this last year was volunteering at the Stewart Goodyear Concert and seeing him perform two of my mom’s favourite piano pieces. My mom was also classically trained and used to play all the time for me and my brother as we were growing up. It was like having her back for a short time!”
— Angela, 5+ year volunteer
“One of my favourite moments was when I was volunteering and there were art students from UBCO there. I fell in love with one of the paintings and spoke to the student artist and bought it. It was the first painting she’d ever sold!”
— Jan, 5-year volunteer
These stories reflect the many ways volunteering creates connection, meaning, and shared experience through the arts.
Appreciating Those Who Give Back
At the RCA, we believe it is important to show our gratitude in meaningful and ongoing ways. Alongside moments like National Volunteer Week, we regularly recognize our volunteers through Volunteer Appreciation Nights, opportunities to attend select performances, and special gifts to mark milestone years of service.
These moments are our way of saying thank you and celebrating the people who give so much of their time and energy to the RCA community. While these gestures are small compared to the impact they make, they reflect how deeply valued our volunteers are year-round.
We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to some of our most dedicated volunteers for their years of service and commitment to the RCA community:
- Jollean – 25 years of volunteering
- Evelin – 23 years of volunteering
- Collene – 20 years of volunteering
- Sandy – 20 years of volunteering
- Wilma – 20 years of volunteering
- William – 15 years of volunteering
- Vi – 13 years of volunteering
- Sheryl – 12 years of volunteering
- Judy – 10 years of volunteering
- Cheri – 10 years of volunteering
- Iris – 10 years of volunteering
- Sharon – 10 years of volunteering
Your dedication has helped shape the RCA into the welcoming, vibrant place it is today.
Join our Volunteer Community
We are always looking to welcome new volunteers who are passionate about the arts and about supporting their community. Whether you are looking to meet new people, learn new skills, or simply give back, volunteering at the RCA is a meaningful way to be part of Kelowna’s creative landscape.
If you are interested in joining our volunteer team, we would love to hear from you.
