On May 6, Peterborough Square came alive with the voices of hundreds of volunteers at the Meet Your Match event. It gave more than 30 groups the chance to meet face to face with people ready and willing to give their time.

It’s amazing how an in-person experience changes the dynamics for a prospective volunteer. Organizers saw visitors’ confidence blossom as they talked one-on-one with volunteer co-ordinators throughout the day.

While the flood of interest speaks to a person’s interest in contributing to their communities, understanding the motivation of individual visitors tells us even more.

One shy Trent University student showed up with her resumé, intent on impressing a group to take her aboard as their treasurer. Within minutes, she had found the Kawartha Komets, a special needs hockey league, who needed her precise skills.

A college student in social work wanted to put his skills into........

© Peterborough Examiner