Brightening Our Community: National Volunteer Week

It’s currently National Volunteer Week (April 19 - 25, 2026), we are thrilled to celebrate the incredible people who keep the heart of People for a Healthy Community beating. This year, we’re saying "thank you" with a touch of sunshine through our annual Sunflower Project.

A Cycle of Growth and Gratitude

The Sunflower Project is more than just a giveaway; it’s a beautiful partnership between PHC and the students of Gabriola Elementary School. Throughout the year, these young gardeners participate in hands-on activities—planting, tending, and learning how food and plants move from the soil into the hands of their neighbors.

By the time National Volunteer Week rolls around, these student-grown sunflowers are ready to be shared with our community volunteers and seniors. It’s a perfect reflection of a program that keeps growing, giving, and renewing itself every single year.

How to Collect Your Gift

To show our appreciation for your tireless support, we invite all PHC volunteers to visit the garden for a special pickup event:

1. When: Thursday, April 23rd

2. Time: 9:30 am – 2:00 pm

3. Where: The PHC Garden

4. What: A student-grown sunflower and a handmade card created just for you!

A Heartfelt Thank You

There is a great deal of compassion, effort, and time expended by our organization to provide this acknowledgment of thanks. From the students’ careful planting to the coordinators' dedicated distribution, it is truly a community effort. Thank you for helping us make this year’s Sunflower Project a success and, most importantly, thank you for everything you do for PHC.

Feeling inspired to join the family? It’s never too late to make a difference. Sign up at www.phcgabriola.org/volunteer or email volunteer@phcgabriola.org to find your place in our mission.

Help us keep the momentum going: Every donation is a direct investment in the vital work our volunteers do every day. Donate here https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/11348 to support a healthy, connected community.