Learning together. Leading together. Thriving together.

On November 8, the inaugural Volunteer Summit brought nearly 100 community leaders together at NSCC Bridgewater for a day dedicated to strengthening volunteerism across Lunenburg and Queens Counties.

Born from a 2024 survey of local volunteer groups, the Summit was created through Project Volunteer — an inter-municipal partnership working to support and reinvigorate volunteer efforts throughout our region.

The day opened with a powerful keynote from Max Chauvin, The Power of Local: Reigniting Volunteerism in Rural Communities, which set an energizing tone for what followed. Participants took part in two thought-provoking group sessions: Don't Just Recruit Volunteers, Let's Build a Community with Volunteer Nova Scotia, and Welcoming Newcomers: Engaging Through Volunteerism, featuring firsthand experiences from newcomers who now call our communities home.

Attendees also chose from a wide range of breakout workshops, diving into practical topics such as grant writing, bookkeeping, fundraising, social media, re-imagining community facilities, and collaborative approaches to supporting volunteers.

Along with a full day of learning, participants enjoyed lunch, refreshments, door prizes, and the excitement of the grand draw — with the $500 prize going to the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 23 in Lunenburg.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the 2025 Volunteer Summit a celebration of the people who help our communities thrive.

Your energy, ideas, and commitment continue to shape a stronger future for all of us.