2 'I never thought I could enjoy my weekends and summers "working" as I have, volunteering for Fort Battleford. I look forward to coming back for a longer period every summer,' said 14-year-old Ainslie Milley, one of Parks Canada’s dedicated junior volunteers.
3 Before becoming a volunteer at the age of 12, Ainslie went to the Fort Battleford National Historic Site on a class field trip. After that first visit, she couldn’t wait to repeat her experience. The opportunity came more quickly than she imagined when she was offered to join as a junior volunteer. 'I wanted to sign up right away. It wasn’t like any "job" I’d heard of,' said Ainslie smilingly.
4 Established in 2007, the aim of the Junior Volunteer Program was to provide youth with more than just a history lesson. The participants develop skills in analyzing history but they can also develop extensive skills in a workplace-like environment. 'In my first year, I helped organize parades and wrote and presented puppet shows for local children’s programs,' explained Ainslie.
5 Eager for her third summer of volunteering, the 14 year-old enthusiast already has the experience of planning and coordinating events, acting and writing for a newsletter. 'This program has helped me develop relevant competencies and grow as a good, inspirational and admirable person,' remarked Ainslie. 'To me, volunteerism is about being independent, offering your time and commitment. It takes a whole team of great people to get the job done.'