Liz Richards was noticed for her great contribution to the community from Edmonton Public Works and Government Services Canada. The following is from her recognition.
April 7, 2010
Volunteers that shine: Liz Richards Covey always makes time for her “Little Sister”
Liz and her Little Sister Amanda pose for a photo after Liz receives her “Volunteer of the Year” award
Ever since Liz Richards Covey started volunteering for the St. John Ambulance Brigade at the age of 13, she has had a great love for helping others.
A Property and Facility Officer with PWGSC in Edmonton, Liz says she tries to help out every chance she gets. She has volunteered for events like the World Firefighter Games, has been a Girl Guide leader, and is now a Big Sister.
“Volunteering at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada has had the biggest impact on my life,” she says. She has been mentoring two kids for over five years, and has been a Big Sister to 13-year-old Amanda for over three years.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada provides mentoring programs throughout the country, and has helped make a difference in the lives of young people for over 96 years.
Liz makes time to visit her “Little Sister” once a week, for two or three hours. They may go for a drive, sing in the car, bake, cook, do crafts, go on outings or just go to Tim Horton’s to chat. Liz says, “It’s fun to act like a kid again, but it is also very important to be a good listener.”
“Sometimes we don’t realize that there are children in our communities who are vibrant, smart and all-round good kids, who just don’t have the full opportunity to be their best,” says Liz.
Liz says she chose to join Big Brothers Big Sisters to give children this opportunity. “By volunteering, I am acting as a positive role model for Amanda and will hopefully always be a fixture in her life.”
In 2009, Liz’s fantastic work was recognized at the Big Brothers Big Sisters awards ceremony, where she received the “Volunteer of the Year” award.
“Volunteering makes me feel good inside and out. I know that by volunteering, I am making life better in my community, particularly for young children like Amanda,” says Liz.
She says she believes that it is important for people of all ages to take advantage of volunteering opportunities.
“Volunteering allows people to learn new skills, take a walk outside their comfort zone and have a positive impact on their community. No matter how you help out, the rewards are many and diverse.”