S&J Blair
From helping to start a local chapter in rural New Brunswick to sitting on the organization’s national board of directors, Stuart and Janet Blair are proof that the sky’s the limit when it comes to volunteer opportunities with DUC.
 

Stuart and Janet Blair – Fredericton, N.B.

Opportunities with DUC allow star volunteers to spread their wings

Much like the waterfowl they work to protect, Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) volunteers are a diverse group – each with their own unique characteristics and abilities that contribute to the wellbeing of wetlands. Some prefer to fly close to the ground, keeping their efforts focused on grassroots fundraising and educational activities in their local communities. Others are keen to rise up through DUC’s volunteer ranks and contribute to wetland conservation at higher levels.

Nineteen-year DUC volunteers Stuart and Janet Blair are the high-flying type. From helping to start a local chapter in rural New Brunswick to sitting on the organization’s national board of directors, these star supporters are proof that the sky’s the limit when it comes to volunteer opportunities with DUC.

Nearly two decades ago, the Blairs were introduced to the DUC cause and decided to start a local chapter with a group of friends in their home community of Harvey, N.B. Since then, their passion for saving wetlands has continually grown, and so has their participation with DUC.

“It was a natural progression to move from being a dinner volunteer to being more involved in the organization,” Stuart says. “Seeing projects such as marsh reconstruction and Greenwing activities that benefited from our fundraising efforts inspired us to learn more about how the organization operates.”

Both Stuart and Janet have been members of New Brunswick’s provincial council and have helped organize a variety of volunteer events for the Atlantic region. Most recently, Stuart has spread his wings and taken on the role of provincial chair for New Brunswick and sits on DUC’s board of directors. Becoming involved at these levels has been a rewarding and validating experience for the Blairs, but both agree that whatever form your volunteer efforts take, you’re sure to make great friends and great memories.

“We have met a lot of interesting and committed people throughout the years who are all making a difference,” Janet says. “As a volunteer, you get a sense that you have helped to make an organization stronger through your efforts – and have fun doing it.”

“Stuart and Janet are perfect examples that show how rewarding volunteering can be,” says Barry Burke, DUC’s fundraising manager in New Brunswick. “Not only have they helped conserve valuable wetland habitat, but they’ve also had the opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people and reap the personal rewards of working toward a common goal. We are extremely fortunate to have them as part of our volunteer team and we truly appreciate all they do in the name of wetland conservation.”

National volunteer week, April 19-25, is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the work of volunteers like the Blairs. Perry McCormick, DUC’s national manager of events, says evidence of the outstanding work of volunteers can be seen across the country.

“We have volunteers to thank for the waterfowl flying overhead and the healthy wetland areas below our feet,” McCormick says. “I’d like to personally thank every one of our 7,400 volunteers. It’s your efforts that make DUC’s wetland conservation work possible.”

It takes all kinds of people with all kinds of skills to develop lasting solutions. Across the country, volunteers like Stuart and Janet Blair are working to ensure the future of wetlands for future generations of waterfowl, wildlife and people.

 
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