Every Moment Matters: Shaping the Future Through
Volunteering
HALIFAX,
NS, April 17, 2024 /CNW/ - Ducks Unlimited
Canada (DUC) is delighted to announce Chuck
MacInnes as the National Volunteer of the Year and the
Provincial Volunteer of the Year for Nova
Scotia. With a remarkable 35-year volunteering tenure, Chuck
has set an exemplary standard of commitment and passion towards
wetland conservation and environmental education.
"The reward is in the work," MacInnes says. "It's not all fun
and games but when you can see what you've helped bring to
fruition, giving youth opportunities to learn or meeting people at
a volunteer dinner, that's gratifying. That's worth it."
Chuck has been a vital part of the Amherst DUC fundraising
committee, where his efforts have propelled the team to achieve
record-setting fundraising and event attendance figures in the
Maritimes.
MacInnes wants to get people outside. "If they learn a little
bit more about what we do, then they can have a better respect for
what's out there in the wetlands... That's the really good
part—when people come up to me after visiting some of these places
and say that they had no idea what was outside their front door.
They started to explore."
A dedicated advocate for the Missaquash Marsh, Chuck's passion
extends to active educational outreach in teaching elementary
students about the importance of wetlands. His retriever
demonstrations have not only educated but also inspired students,
fostering a deeper connection with nature.
"One of the highlights is definitely the kids," he says. "I was
asked to do retriever demonstrations and the youngsters were
astounded by how a dog can help with hunting. Seeing that made me
really proud."
His leadership in launching new educational programs has
significantly increased community engagement and support for DUC's
mission across Atlantic
Canada.
When asked what this award means to him, MacInnes takes a moment
before answering. "It's quite humbling, really. Being in the
company of the people who have won in the past, and all those who
were probably nominated this year," he says. "Everybody I know
across the Maritime provinces all believe the same things and
represent Ducks amazingly. They're all worthy. Knowing that they,
my peers, put me forward for this… well that's something
special."
There are approximately 160 DUC volunteers in Nova Scotia and 3,500 across Canada. DUC is proud to recognize each of
them—including outstanding leaders like Chuck MacInnes—as volunteer
champions and conservationists who make every moment matter by
serving with generosity, passion and dedication.
As we celebrate Chuck's achievements, we encourage others to
join the ranks of DUC volunteers. Volunteering with DUC is an
opportunity to make a tangible impact on our natural environment
and contribute to vital conservation efforts. Visit our volunteer
page to learn more and become part of a community that values and
protects our natural heritage.
Become a volunteer: Inspired by Chuck MacInnes's work? Join the ranks of
dedicated volunteers like Chuck and help us conserve Canada's precious wetlands. Visit DUC for more
information on how you can contribute.
As DUC continues to lead in the creation and preservation of
urban wetlands, its efforts exemplify the power of community in
conservation. DUC calls on individuals, businesses, and
policymakers to support these vital initiatives.
Inspired by Chuck's impact? There are many ways to get involved,
including our upcoming "Duck and Run" event. Every moment matters,
together, we can make a difference.
For more information on DUC's conservation projects and how you
can contribute, visit ducks.ca (https://www.ducks.ca).
About Ducks Unlimited
Canada
Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is the leader in wetland
conservation. A registered charity, DUC uses sound science and
partners with government, industry, non-profit organizations,
Indigenous Peoples and landowners to conserve wetlands that are
critical to waterfowl, wildlife and the environment. To learn more
about DUC's innovative environmental solutions and services,
visit www.ducks.ca
For more information on DUC's conservation projects and how you
can contribute, visit [ducks.ca](https://www.ducks.ca).
SOURCE Ducks Unlimited Canada