Carolyn McDonald, Emergency Support Services (ESS) Director
Carolyn started volunteering with ESS more than 20 years ago when Reidun Van Kervel was Director. Back then, ESS recruited volunteers to fill specific roles and Carolyn was tasked with operating Pet and Livestock Services. As a long-time farmer Carolyn’s passion was for saving as many animals as she could in an emergency.
Fast forward many years and Carolyn is now the fearless volunteer leader of the ESS volunteer group. She has worked tirelessly to ensure that the team is ready for a Bowen Island evacuation of any size. This work has included:
- Meeting monthly with ESSDs around the province to learn from other community’s evacuations.
- Meeting monthly with local volunteers to stay prepared for an on-Island emergency.
- Organizing training and workshop opportunities for volunteers.
- Filling trailers with supplies ready for a Reception Centre or Group Lodgings activation.
The latest ESS grant from Union of BC Municipalities brings her back to her initial reason for joining the group – a horse trailer and various pet supplies such as crates, leashes and water bowls. ESS is ready to evacuate horses or other livestock to safe locations on island and we can house multiple dogs, cats or other pets if required.
ESS volunteers are provided with all the training they need, a flexible level of commitment and a supportive volunteer group. Carolyn would love to talk with you about volunteer opportunities. You can reach her at BowenESS@bimbc.ca. Learn more about Emergency Support Services.