Anne Driscoll: an MVP for Peterborough volunteerism

The strength of the team lies in each individual member. The strength of each member is the team, and a leader, who understands the value of every player.

Anne Driscoll has lived a life of tireless commitment to non-profit organizations. She embodies the spirit of accomplishment when people work together for the community.

Anne has served as an integral figure to many Peterborough and area charitable organizations throughout her life. She was District Manager of Easter Seals for Peterborough, Huntsville, Lakeshore, Northumberland for several years.

She also held managerial  positions with United Way, Multiple Sclerosis Society and Community Living Peterborough, then volunteered at Five Counties Children’s Centre and the Canadian Cancer Society, to name a few.

Fundraising and finance are particular specialities and interests for Anne, a former member of the Peterborough Women’s Business Network. She also assisted in developing the first International Women’s Day in Peterborough.

“For me it’s all about building relations and trust with the many dedicated volunteers who are the team in any charity organization,” Anne says. “I thrive on watching a group evolve and grow due to the hard work of volunteers.”

A life dedicated to volunteerism

“However, when COVID struck, like so many others, I lost my job and was totally lost,” she adds.

“Peterborough was one of the hardest hit areas for non-profit organizations so I immediately pivoted to volunteering myself for Community Care. They helped me help others, filled the void, and soon  I was off and running once more – shopping for groceries and making deliveries to shut-ins – all the good work Community Care does.”

Today, while “back to the office”  at LLS Financial Services, Anne continues to offer her skills in fundraising and finance as a director on the board of Volunteer Peterborough.

She is excited about the great work VP does by connecting volunteers with organizations. She also provides her expertise as a volunteer board member for Alternatives Community Program Services for adults with disabilities.

Why does she volunteer so willingly?

“Well,” says Anne, “you will have a lot of fun and meet new people; you can offer your skill set to help an organization or a person, find a purpose for your own life, improve your mental health.”

She stays motivated by networking, learning about people and hearing their stories while working for charitable organizations and with other volunteers.

“It brings me much joy and fulfillment,” Anne says. “I could never have accomplished what I have in all of my many jobs without volunteers.”

As she reflects on what volunteering has done for her life, she offers a simple piece of advice.

“God isn’t done with me yet,” she says with a laugh. “There is still so much more to do. Share your talents and volunteer. Peterborough needs you.”