Student Development Services’ Volunteers In Progress Program started as a summer project funded by a Government Summer Experience Program and implemented by a group of Western students in 1983.
Since then, the program has grown into a large and successful volunteer program, providing opportunities each year to more than 100 Western students to volunteer in positions such as marketing and promotions assistant, newsletter editor, English conversation leader, website research and maintenance assistant, activity coordinator, learning skills assistant, photographer, and Information, office and administrative assistant.
For 25 years, the VIP Program has been enriching and complementing students’ academic life by providing them with the opportunity to develop skills and gain career-related work experience.
Through the creativity, commitment and hard work over the years of close to 2,000 volunteers, SDS has been able to provide unique programs and services and a high quality support to the student community at Western.
On Friday, Jan. 23, the program will celebrate the helping spirit, dedication and contribution of Western students and reflecting on 25 years of success by inviting current and former VIPs, VIP supervisors, and Western staff.
The special guest performer of the evening, Brenda McMorrow, singer and song writer and former VIP will entertain guests with her inspiring music. Originally from B.C. and now based in Guelph, this gifted songwriter, vocalist and guitarist has recently returned from three creatively magical years in Korea, Thailand and India.
McMorrow has released two acclaimed albums and has shared festival rosters with Bruce Cockburn and Great Big Sea. Her most recent record, Ameya, is a collection of ancient Sanskrit chants set to original melodies. For more information visit: www.brendamcmorrow.com
The writer is the VIP program assistant.
VIP Event
Volunteers in Progress marks 25 years. Current and former VIPs, supervisors, and staff on hand.
Jan. 23, 4-6 p.m., Conron Hall, University College
Complimentary refreshments
RSVP by Jan. 12 khodgin4@uwo.ca