An unknown author once said, “Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year; but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in”.
If that’s true, then Ladysmith – this grand old dame of a town – must be the biggest democracy around. It constantly amazes me how, for such a little community, Ladysmith has a nearly endless supply of clubs, organizations, and associations – with a veritable army of volunteers who all spend their time building the best community they can. Ladysmith really is the Queen of Clubs! Here’s a rundown on all the service clubs and arts organizations that Ladysmith has to offer:
Service Clubs:
Ladysmith Fraternal Order of Eagles
The F.O.E Ladysmith 2101 works hard to bring citizens together in the name of bettering communities and raising funds to assist friends and neighbours in need. They donate thousands of dollars annually to Ladysmith sports groups, Festivals and Celebrations, and Community Support groups. Their motto is “People Helping People”. More…
Ladysmith Kinsmen
Kin Canada is an all-Canadian service organization made up of outstanding community volunteers. From coast to coast, members are enhancing quality of life in their communities by promoting service, fellowship, positive values and national pride. The Ladysmith Kinsmen really enjoy getting their hands dirty – building playgrounds and access ramps as well as fundraising to help local families and graduating students. The Ladysmith Kinsmen are also the sponsors and organizers of both of the Town’s annual parades: Ladysmith Celebration Days in the Summer, as well as the hugely famous Festival of Lights’ Light Up parade in November. More…
Rotary Club of Ladysmith
Rotary International brings together business and professional leaders in order to provide humanitarian service and to advance goodwill and peace around the world. It is a non-political and non-religious organization open to all people regardless of race, colour, creed, religion, gender, or political preference. The Ladysmith Club holds regular meetings every first and third Thursday of every month at the Fox and Hound Pub. More…
Ladysmith Lions Club
Lions strive to create and foster a spirit of understanding among all people for humanitarian needs by providing voluntary service through community involvement and international co-operation. The Ladysmith Lions meet on the 2nd and 4th Monday of the month at 6:30 pm at the Ladysmith Seniors Center. More…
Royal Canadian Legion Branch #171
Whether helping local Veterans, supporting seniors, providing youth sports programs, raising funds, volunteering to help those in need, or simply offering a place to gather for fun and celebration, Legionnaires provide essential services in their communities. The Royal Canadian Legion is proud of its military heritage and still maintains close ties with the Armed Forces today; however, over the years, categories of membership have evolved to include members of our close knit community. Please feel free to come visit us at 621 First Avenue in Ladysmith. More…
Ladysmith Air Cadets
Launched in 1943, the Ladysmith Air Cadets provide a dynamic, structured youth program that offers a variety of interesting and challenging activities and develops an increased level of self-confidence, self-esteem and self-awareness in local youth. Cadets are motivated to improve their physical fitness, to work harder at their academic studies and to give back to their communities through volunteerism and citizenship activities. More…
Community Services Groups
Ladysmith Fire/Rescue (LFR) Ladysmith Fire/Rescue is a volunteer fire department that provides fire protection to the Town of Ladysmith, parts of Saltair and the Diamond Improvement District. The fire protection area spans over 40 square miles. In addition to responding to approximately 200 calls per year, LFR maintains a strong public education and fire prevention presence in our community. More…
Ladysmith Search & Rescue (LSAR)
LSAR’s Ground Search and Rescue members are highly trained in back-country rescues. The LSAR Swift Water Team responds to incidents in inland waters, creeks lakes and rivers. Additionally, LSAR offers Adventure Smart programs to educate the public on being prepared when they head out in the back country. More…
Ladysmith Resources Centre Association (LRCA)
The LRCA is a non-profit charity that serves unique and diverse individuals and families by offering resources and services that enhance the quality of life in Ladysmith and surrounding area. The LRCA has a renewed mission, a purposeful direction to “enrich the lives of the people in the community through advocacy, programs and partnerships.” More…
Ladysmith Family & Friends (LaFF)
LaFF is a Family Centre for families and caregivers from Ladysmith and surrounding areas with children up to the age of 6 which provides inclusive, interactive opportunities for the development of children, families and community. LaFF’s vision is to have a community of connected and thriving families. More…
Ladysmith Seniors’ Centre
The Ladysmith Seniors’ Centre is the social club for the 55+ crowd! It’s a perfect place to socialize, meet new friends, and take part in many daily activities. LSC provides social recreation, health, fitness and special interest activities to keep members active and involved. LSC provides services to over 350 members, and annual membership is only $20. More…
Ladysmith Newcomer’s Club (LNC)
Just arrived in Ladysmith and looking to make new friends? Need help with a specific need for your family or business but don’t know where to start? Or are you looking to move to Ladysmith from afar and need help landing safely? The LNC is a social club where new residents can meet and interact through fun activities and events. More…
Arts & Culture Organizations
Ladysmith Arts Council
The mission of the Arts Council of Ladysmith is to enhance the vitality of the artistic community through enrichment and developing the arts through education, exhibition and engagement. Their goal is to bring together artists & arts lovers of all styles and mediums, and provide artistic opportunities and experiences within the community and surrounding areas. The volunteer-run Waterfront gallery hosts monthly exhibitions and can be rented for private art shows and events. More…
Ladysmith & District Historical Society
Promoting awareness of Ladysmith’s history and operating a museum at 721 First Avenue, the Historical Society has helped preserve Ladysmith heritage since they were incorporated in 1999. They administer the Ladysmith Archives, which provides free, public access to thousands of documents related to the history of the Ladysmith area. More…
Ladysmith Maritime Society
The Ladysmith Maritime Society serves the local community by operating a maritime museum, restoring heritage boats, operating the Ladysmith Community Marina, providing summertime harbour tours, and hosting the annual Ladysmith Maritime Festival event. More…
Whew! I know, it’s quite a list! I hope it helps you get a sense of the volunteer opportunities in this great town. A word of warning, though: you may end up joining more than one of these organizations – it’s happened before!
Thanks for reading! The next instalment will highlight the sports clubs and event committees available in Ladysmith.