The efforts of Bermuda's senior volunteers were recognised as the Island celebrated National Volunteer Day.

Centre on Philanthropy vice chairman Brian Madeiros stressed their worth in a presentation at City Hall last Friday. The day's events concluded with a reception at Government House where contributions of dedicated individuals were recognised.

"For many seniors, retirement has actually been a transition from paid to voluntary services," he said.

"After decades of working, it would be completely understandable if seniors took a well deserved break from the daily grind. However, instead, many have chosen to spend their days giving of their time and talent.

"You will find seniors reading to young children, serving food, raising funds, and engaging in countless other volunteer roles."

One example was Fred Hassell, 58, who is probably best known for his work with the Bermuda Senior Islanders' Centre. He has volunteered as a minister for 33 years at the New Apostolic Church on Admiralty Lane.

"I enjoy volunteering," he stated yesterday. "As the father of psychology Sigmund Freud said, 'If we loose our enthusiasm and passion for life we loose our direction and focus'."

Glamorous Granny 2008, Joan Dismont, has been volunteering in a number of community service organisations for 15 years.

She said: "I enjoy doing it. I love to help others especially the less fortunate."

Mrs. Dismont said she currently volunteers with Meals On Wheels (MOW), The Bermuda National Trust and YouthNet.

"With MOW, I love when people greet me with a nice smile and I give them an even bigger one back. I also sing happy birthday when it is someone's birthday. Volunteering makes you show love, kindness and understanding and it gives you peacefulness and a sense of mind."

Minister of Culture and Social Rehabilitation, Dale Butler also shared in the commemoration of volunteers on the Island.

He said of the act of giving: "You just have to call upon that inner spirit that drives you to contribute to the wellbeing of someone other then yourself.

"You merely have to reflect on your life and find something in it that you can share with the community at large."

The event concluded with a declaration by Mr. Butler and a song performed by Khalilah Smith explaining the meaning of philanthropy as written by a member of the Centre on Philanthropy.