It’s Volunteer Appreciation Day on 94.1 myFM presented by Williams Funeral Home.
Today we’re shining a light on five individuals who have made a name for themselves in the community by giving back through a number of great causes.
For Matt Sharpe, current Deputy Governor with the St. Thomas Kinsmen, his love for giving back started a number of years ago.
Not only has he been a member of the Kinsmen for over 11 years now, he also serves as treasurer of the St. Thomas Elgin Insurance Brokers Association, a board he’s been a part of for 19 years.
As someone who spends his days selling insurance, Sharpe never though he’d be spending his off time the way he does.
And that’s just a small taste of what the St. Thomas Kinsmen do for our community. From yes, the Kinsmen Easter Egg Hunt, their Fireworks Trailer, to large donations to organizations such as the Grace Cafe, The Inn, St Thomas-Elgin Food Bank, Project Tiny Hope, St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre and so much more.
With the club’s motto being “Serving the Community’s Greatest Need” Sharpe notes that thanks to support from residents attending their events, they’re able to give back to the most vulnerable.
But even local events such as their Steak and Craft Beer Night, which is hosted in honour of a past member, has national reach.
As far as why Sharpe chooses to spend his free time volunteering, he had this to say.
And this all started when a friend invited him out one day to give the club a try! Sharpe adds that if you’ve ever thought about getting involved in your community, just get out there!
You can hear more from Matt Sharpe in our extended interview below…
Written by: Kennedy Freeman