KAGAWONG—The word volunteer per Cambridge dictionary’s definition is “a person who does something, especially helping other people, willingly and without being forced or paid to do it.”
When an opportunity presented itself several years, Ethel Newburn along with fellow vendor Karen Free, assumed the role of organizing and running the weekly summer market from Lois Linley (who took a step back to focus on other responsibilities).
When the duo took over the market, it was small (30 tables) and not growing at the time. Ms Newburn undertook the challenge as she was confident, they “could do it together.”
In 2018 (and years prior), the market was held at the covered pavilion on Old Mill Road. Twelve tables were set up and vendors sold their wares. Fast forward to 2025, Ms. Newburn now manages between 65 and 70 vendors who set up at the Park Centre parking lot and the Kagawong River Complex. The market has exploded and there is a waiting list.
The market is a wonderful way to meet people, Ms. Newburn calling it a “very friendly market.” Volunteering increases one’s social skills teaching you to work with others through communication and it also brings fun into your life. Ms. Newburn always has a warm ready smile when you meet her.
Ms. Newburn did not have opportunity to volunteer as a kid growing up on the family farm, however as an adult, managed her youngest son Jessey’s Midget hockey team, and like many parents, helped at school bake sales.
She organized a community Easter egg hunt for several years in Kagawong and assisted through a church organization helping at a soup kitchen and at another delivering food hampers at Christmas time.
When asked what she would say to someone who does not see the value in volunteering, Ms. Newburn shared that “if you have the opportunity, try it. What are you losing? It can make you feel good about yourself. It makes things happen that otherwise would not.”
For those who are newly retired and say, ‘I’m bored, I have no friends,’ Ms. Newburn suggests try it one day a week, you can make your own choices; the reward is meeting and working with new people who may become new friends.
In her spare time, Ms. Newburn can be found gardening, (she inherited a green thumb from her paternal grandmother), going for a run, travelling, or spending time with her grandchildren.
The Kagawong market kicks off Wednesday June 25, running weekly, with the last market being held on Wednesday, September 3.
The sharing of time, skills, empathy, and creativity is vital to the inclusivity, strength, and well-being of our communities. By coming together, committing support, and increasing our collective efforts and impact, volunteers contribute exponentially to the quality of life we all strive for.
National Volunteer Week is a chance to highlight the value of volunteers and their positive impact on society.
Thank you, Ethel!
by Sharon Jackson
