Nike hit the marketing jackpot with its ubiquitous Just Do It campaign.
But Aurora’s Sue Townsend wants would-be volunteers to embrace the motivational catchphrase with the same fervour meant to inspire sedentary homebodies.
“That’s what I did. There’s always a need,” she said.
The 47-year-old Montreal native bridged the disconnect with her adopted community of Aurora by volunteering shortly after moving from Quebec 10 years ago.
In that time, she has helped make abused women feel a little more comfortable, helped feed hungry families and made autistic children feel better appreciated.
At Kerry’s Place, that meant accompanying autistic children to an art shop where many revealed an artistic flare.
The subjectivity and intuition of the art medium proved to be an eye-opening experience, Ms Townsend recalled.
While at Aurora’s Yellow Brick House, she performed many of the same household chores she would at her home.
Those who have gotten to know the soft-spoken executive assistant quickly realized there is no task too menial or too challenging.
She will often step outside her own comfort level if it means making the life of a stranger just a little easier.
Any charity would be fortunate to have someone such as Ms Townsend, Aurora Food Pantry director Lorna Rummenie said.
Demand has steadily increased since the food pantry first opened its doors 18 years ago.
Its staff of about 25 volunteers will walk the aisles of the Yonge Street food pantry, assisting clients, based on the size of their family.
Each volunteer is asked to commit a few hours per month, however, Ms Townsend is at the food pantry twice a month for a three-hour shift.
“She’s great. She’s very outgoing and personable,” Ms Rummenie said.
It’s something that hasn’t gone unnoticed among clients who often need a sympathetic ear, an ear Ms Townsend is more than happy to provide.
Her altruistic spirit was inherited from her mother who donated countless hours to her community church and working with the blind in Montreal.
However, giving back was never forced or preached.
“It was more, she led by example,” she said.
Her goal is to take on many charitable works, including more time with local seniors and youth.
That may mean adding CHATS, hospice and Big Brothers and Sisters to her list.
Some of the organizations fortunate enough to have Ms Townsend, can thank her friend, Linda Potter.
Neighbourhood Network administrator Ms Potter had been curling with Ms
Townsend for three years when she asked her to join the new non-profit organization.
“Her enthusiasm stands out. Everybody loves Sue. Volunteering is obviously very important to her,” Ms Potter said.
“You can call Sue if you need help.
“She’s always willing to pitch in. Those kinds of people are always good to have around.”
If it were up to her, Ms Townsend would make even more of a mark on her community.
“If I didn’t have to work, I’d volunteer all the time,” she said.
Since launching last January, Neighbourhood Network now has 250 volunteers pitching in with nearly 50 local charities.
It was founded by Newmarket-Aurora MP Belinda Stronach and funded by her family’s company, Magna International.
She envisioned an altruistic matchmaking organization where volunteers are paired with charities.
It was spawned by a stream of calls from residents to Ms Stronach’s constituent office, asking about what communities services were available.
Neighbourhood Network became a one-stop shop.
Whether it’s students fulfilling community service hours, retired professionals sharing their expertise or anyone who simply wants to get involved, anyone can register online and fill out a questionnaire to match their interests with community needs.
Anyone interested in volunteering, can visit www. neighbourhoodnetwork.org or call 905-726-3737.