Western Development Museum volunteer blitz draws impressive support

Like any organization of its kind, the Moose Jaw Western Development Museum heavily relies on volunteers to make things run as smoothly as possible, especially with the many events they run throughout the year.

After the special volunteer blitz on Saturday afternoon, it’s all but certain they’ll have plenty of helping hands in the future.

More than 30 people took part in the informational session, which ran down the various volunteer opportunities and requirements at the local facility.

“It’s been a great turnout,” said Karla Rasmussen, education/public programs co-ordinator for the WDM. “It’s our annual awareness campaign, we’re always looking for volunteers but we’re also trying to introduce the things we do at the museum to those who might not be aware of the different opportunities. Quite often we’ll get a phone call or a visitor will ask ‘what sorts of things do you do here’ or you’ll get the other end where ‘you just have children’s activities’. So it’ an opportunity to talk about those things and open everyone’s eyes to the different ways they can get involved in the museum.”

There are numerous areas that need volunteer staffing, including tour guides and interpreters, special event volunteers and even special volunteers to work with the steam engines the museum has on hand, including the K+S Short Line 101.

And when it comes to special events, there’s plenty to see and do – ranging from the annual model train show and Brickspo to smaller events that take place around most holidays.

Fortunately, the WDM has plenty of help. But as the old saying goes, more hands make for light work.

“At the end of 2019, we had 130 volunteers signed up on paper,” Rasmussen said. “Some are a little more active, they come out to every event or they’re here on a weekly basis. Some aren’t quite as particular in their timing, or they have one particular event they love to help with and we don’t see them the rest of the year.”

One thing that’s certain – if you want to help, the WDM will find something for you to do.

“It’s a wonderful way for folks to help who maybe don’t have a lot of time, we can help find a small project to help with or if you’d like to be a regular volunteer we can line you up with ongoing work as well,” Rasmussen said.

Next up for the WDM is Heritage Day on Feb. 8, followed by the always popular Thunder Creek Model Train Show during the Mar. 28 weekend.

Potential volunteers can check out the Western Development Museum website or drop by and pick up a volunteer information package and sign-up form with all the information needed.