Got some work that needs to be done but can’t find anyone to do it? Relax, help is here.

A new group of close to a dozen Katimavik volunteers are making Alberton their home for three weeks, and they are itching to try new work experiences.

On Thursday half a dozen volunteers rolled up their sleeves to give a fresh coat of paint to the Alberton Public Library.

“We’re repainting all the trim on the shelves and sanding,” said Toronto native Madeleine Lahaie, noting the main coat will be added this week.

“We’re also organizing a fund raiser for the library as well as figuring out what we’re going to do with the window display,” said Ms Lahaie.

Fund raisers are important for libraries who rely heavily on volunteers to provide the services and resources the community demands, she said.

“They don’t have government funding for things like toilet paper and cleaning supplies,” said Ms Lahaie.

When asked what she appreciates the most after her experience, she described how wonderful it was to be exposed to new cultures and how she enjoyed living in an aboriginal community in Northern Ontario.

“That was really eye-opening, we learned a lot from that.”

Quebec City resident Pierre Hamel’s most rewarding experiences was working with the residents of an addictions shelter. As for living in close quarters with other volunteers, including those at a Katimavik house in Alberton, Mr Hamel joked, “I appreciate every one of them, but sometimes you just want to be alone.” 

Katimavik participants will gladly pitch in do any odd jobs as long as they are for non-profits which benefit the community.

This group of volunteers will be heading back to their hometowns on February 15, after completing their six month contract working in communities across the country.

“It’s been great,” said Andrew Oliver-Forbes, from Lacombe, Alberta. “It’s amazing how much you learn travelling across the country with people you don’t know (at first).” 

That of course, all changes after just a short period of time, he said.

“You get different experiences that you never had before,” said Kayla Haggard, from Kelowna, BC.

She thoroughly enjoyed her work, considering the biggest challenge of the past six months, “learning how to cook for 12 people. “It’s really hard, but you get used to it,” she said, with a laugh.

“It was a hard experience at first, coming from a small town (Oak Point, Manitoba).  It’s really difficult to be thrown into a different community with a lot of people you don’t know.  But it’s been a great learning experience and we’ve all grown so much from it.”

Katimavik volunteers are also working at the Phillips Residence, Kids West, Tignish and Alberton Elementary schools.

“They’re brightening up the library and making it a more comforting place to visit,” said librarian Kelly Gillis. “They’re quite capable young people and we appreciate them greatly.”

Katimavik volunteers can be reached at 853-4172 for anyone who might need help.