Music fan makes memorable moments volunteering with Musicfest

After retiring, Michael Shearer moved back to Peterborough, where he had attended high school decades earlier.

As he sought way to give back to the community, he applied to volunteer at an organization but its staff didn’t respond.

One day, while scrolling on social media, he discovered Volunteer Peterborough.

As he read through dozens of unique listings, he saw several local opportunities that piqued his interest.

“I applied for a board member position at Peterborough Musicfest, through the Volunteer Peterborough portal and was accepted after an interview process,” he says. “Volunteer Peterborough was crucial in this journey and I am delighted with the outcome.”

His smile in this photo shows how much he enjoys the role.

Why did he choose to get involved with Peterborough Musicfest out of all the causes he could have chosen?

“Memorable moments are often recalled when the music I’m listening to sparks a positive memory,” he says in his biography on the Musicfest website.

“It’s like music has this way of connecting me to what matters most. I thought, here’s a perfect opportunity to be part of something incredible. I get to give back, and in turn, I could help to create memorable experiences for future generations.”

We asked him about the best thing he gets out of volunteering.

“It keeps me active both physically and mentally,” he replied.

At Del Crary Park during summer, he helps raise funds via 50-50 draws. Meanwhile, in the off-season, he engages in strategic planning with the executive team.

“The dedication of the team to enhancing Musicfest for Peterborough and the Kawarthas makes me proud to be part of such an organization,” Michael says.

Now, it’s your turn

Volunteer Peterborough’s match-making website makes it easy to find the right volunteer role, no matter your age or experience.

Simply set up an account and click off the boxes that identify your areas of interest and your skills. The next time you log in, your ‘volunteer’ tab in your profile will be full of whatever roles match what you submitted.

If you don’t wish to create an account, you can still explore the 164 non-profits on the site and the opportunities they have posted.

To make it easier, use the filters that narrow down the causes that interest you or the skills you have to share. A series of icons also highlight roles suited by high school students, those who rely on transit or those who want to help out in person, virtually or both.

If you prefer to seek matches in person, mark the date Wednesday, May 7 on your calendar. That afternoon, you can come to Peterborough Square and meet more than 75 groups who seek helpers for their causes.

The event is free and open to any member of the public.

We also offer one-on-one sessions for non-profits seeking to set up their own listings. Simply drop into our office at the Chamber of Commerce building at 175 George Street on Wednesdays between 1 and 3 p.m. You can also get support by calling 705-874-0073 or emailing volunteer@volunteerPeterborough.ca.

For further inspiration, here’s what Michael tells prospective volunteers to get them involved in community groups.

“If you have time and passion, many organizations seek dedicated individuals,” he notes. “My love for music and event management experience made volunteering a perfect match for me.”

He recognizes that everyone has their own passions and ways to fulfill them by giving their valuable time.

“Numerous opportunities exist if you take the time to explore them,” Michael says. “Signing up with Volunteer Peterborough simplifies the search and provides tools to connect with these organizations.”