It is no secret that without volunteers, there would be no Rendezvous. Each year hundreds of Yukon residents step up to continue a tradition that started over 55 years ago. It is these volunteers who contribute to the success of the Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous festival and make it such a memorable event and experience.
Rendezvous recently announced that they will be moving the 2019 festival to the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre and surrounding grounds, as the facility will allow the festival to offer more family-friendly programming throughout the weekend. The change of location to the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre and grounds is also expected to see an uptick in volunteer recruitment. Over the years, finding volunteers for the windy Shipyards Park has proved increasingly difficult, and the new location should reinvigorate our dedicated volunteers who come out, year after year, and also entice a new contingent of volunteers to sign up. Operations manager, Six Shooter Sas (yours truly), is confident that the warmer settings will encourage those that may have been scared off by the cooler temperatures, to sign up, to volunteer for the 2019 festival.
With so many non-profit organizations in the Yukon relying on volunteers, it is heartening to see the community come together, event after event, in support of each other. Volunteering for Rendezvous is no different. Being the “only legal cure for cabin fever blues,” Rendezvous brings the community together and is a prime example of what can be achieved through community spirit.
Along with the wealth of experience volunteers receive, the fun environment promotes the creation of lifelong friendships with people from across the territory. Marjie Cowell has been volunteering for Rendezvous for well over a decade and said, “Rendezvous has always been my first Yukon family. The people you meet are the most amazing reason possible for getting involved with this festival.
“You meet some of the most talented and creative people, all passionate about seeing the festival thrive and grow, and it feels amazing to be a part of that success. Plus, we all have a terrific time together!” Now heading into her ninth year as Queen Mum, it is clear that volunteering is something that is close to her heart.
Of course, there are also some other perks to becoming a Rendezvous volunteer. Coca-Cola/Whitehorse Beverages have sponsored the volunteer program since 2013; and together, with their support, the society ensures that all volunteers are recognized and looked after—from providing warm clothing, to keeping the volunteers hydrated and fed. “We are very grateful for the continued support that Whitehorse Beverages provides that allows us to reward our hardworking volunteers,” said Shrestha.
A huge thank you to our volunteers, young and old, who continue to give generously of themselves and their time. It is you who make Rendezvous possible!
If there is an event or activity you would like to sign up for, please let us know. All volunteer opportunities are listed on the Yukon Sourdough Rendezvous website: yukonrendezvous.com/volunteer or contact the office at 867-667-2148 or [email protected] to find out more.
