Whether at the Codrington Farmers’ Market or the Codrington Community Association – or her many other roles over the years – Liana Palmer says volunteering and helping others feeds the soul.
Palmer is well-known in Codrington for her work with the market since its inception about 12 years ago. You can often find her giving, but she calls it “a labour of love.”
And its volunteers like Palmer who keep Northumberland running and vibrant.
For just the market, Palmer is part of a small but mighty team of six volunteers who’ve transformed the market into a weekly Sunday destination and community hub supporting local farmers, producers, artisans, musicians and more from May through October.
Meanwhile, through the Codrington Community Association, she helps with events and activities like weekly breakfasts, monthly lunches, and additional fundraisers.
Her volunteer journey started when she moved to the area some 45 years ago following an invitation to the Codrington Women’s Institute. She quickly discovered she loved it and has been volunteering ever since.
Despite all the hours she’s logged over the years, she still insists she gets back from volunteering more than she gives and believes volunteers drive a true sense of community in rural Northumberland.
“Just seeing people smile and enjoy an activity you have planned or are helping with is really gratifying,” she says.
Over the years, she’s also been involved with additional efforts like the fundraising committee behind Helping Ukrainians Get Settled (HUGS) in Brighton – an initiative she reflects on as also deeply meaningful – and much more.
To anyone who’s considering volunteering, Palmer encourages residents to take that first step, saying the experience might just be life-changing – and the need has never been greater.
“There is a place that needs your help in this community – in every community.”
Listen in below to Palmer’s full interview, presented by realtor Lisa Francis with REMAX Quinte.
