Our Story

Langley Volunteer Bureau

The Langley Volunteer Bureau (LVB) was founded on the belief that strong communities are built through meaningful volunteer engagement. Over the past decade, LVB has grown from a visionary idea into a central hub supporting thousands of volunteers and dozens of non-profit organizations across Langley. This report reflects on the milestones, leadership, partnerships, and community impact that have shaped the organization since its inception.

Foundation (2016)

The Langley Volunteer Bureau was established in 2016 by a group of committed community leaders who recognized the need for a coordinated volunteer resource in Langley. The original Board of Directors included:

· Zosia Ettenberg, 2012 Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Award

· Sylvia Anderson, 2017 Eric Flowerdew Volunteer Award

· Karen Long, 2025 Good Citizen of the Year Award

· Debra Dolton, 2017 Unsung Hero Award

· Susan Byrom, Envision Financial – Charter Sponsor

Key Founding Contributions

Zosia Ettenberg

· Introduced the tagline “Langley Volunteers”

· Registered the Langley Volunteer Bureau with the BC Society Registry

Karen Long

· Led the formalization of LVB’s purpose and mission

· Drafted the bylaws and constitution

· Achieved BC Society approval on November 16, 2016

Susan Byrom

· Provided the first draft of the LVB logo

· Developed the original website and Facebook page, establishing LVB’s early digital presence

These foundational steps created the structure, identity, and credibility needed for the organization to grow.

Digital Transformation and Innovation (2018–Present)

A major milestone occurred on February 8, 2018, when LVB signed an IT Consulting Agreement with Rose Snowdon of Better World Software (BWS). The goal was ambitious: to create a digital platform that would allow LVB to manage volunteer data, agency relationships, and community opportunities more effectively.

Following a successful fundraising campaign, BWS delivered a suite of interconnected digital tools:

· BetterOrg – A platform for non-profit organizations to manage volunteer needs

· BetterApp – A user-friendly mobile application for volunteers

· BetterCommunity.ca – A public-facing portal showcasing volunteer opportunities across Langley

These tools transformed LVB’s capacity to serve the community, enabling streamlined communication, improved data management, and broader outreach.

Growth and Community Impact

Over the past decade, the Langley Volunteer Bureau has grown into a vital community resource. Through its digital platforms, partnerships, and outreach initiatives, as of 2026, LVB has achieved:

· Support for more than 70 non-profit organizations

· 6000+ registered volunteers and growing

· Thousands of volunteer hours contributed annually

· Increased visibility and accessibility for volunteer opportunities

· Stronger collaboration across Langley’s social, cultural, and emergency-response sectors

This growth reflects the dedication of volunteers, the commitment of partner organizations, and the leadership of the Board.

Their leadership, governance, and community insight have helped guide LVB through periods of growth, transition, and innovation.

Milestone Event: The First Volunteer Fair

A significant moment in LVB’s history was the first Volunteer Fair, held on September 22 at the Aldergrove Legion. This event marked LVB’s first major public outreach initiative, bringing volunteers and agencies together in a shared space. It set the stage for future fairs, community events, and engagement strategies that continue to strengthen Langley’s volunteer culture.

Looking Ahead: The Next Decade

As LVB enters its second decade, the organization remains committed to:

· Expanding digital tools and accessibility

· Increasing volunteer recruitment and retention

· Strengthening partnerships with local non-profits

· Enhancing community outreach and engagement

· Supporting a resilient, connected, and inclusive Langley

The foundation built over the past ten years positions LVB for continued growth and impact.

Special Thanks

A special mention of our taskforce from 2016, without whom LVB would not be possible (in alphabetical order by last name):

And last but nor least, thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey.

Together, we continue to build a community where everyone belongs, and everyone contributes