Blog  June 7, 2011

Luka: Weekend Program Assistant

11-year-old Luka and his mother Mimi are very familiar faces at our Saturday Farmers’ Market. (Photo: Paul Senra)

Bizjak Fruit Farms is family-run effort that's ripe with passion—and a big part of the EBW Farmers’ Market.

Mimi and her son Luka start with a very early Saturday morning at the farm in Beamsville, Ontario, packing loads of colourful and juicy peaches, cherries, apples, pears and berries for the trip to Toronto. During the market, Luka helps to host the Bizjak stand but is also a keen Weekend Program Assistant Volunteer for Evergreen.

You can often find Luka helping with bikes, building structures in Chimney Court, hauling around supplies for farmers, engaging other children or lending a hand in the kitchen. Always eager and willing to help out wherever needed—and especially good at helping keep Evergreen staff on track—Luka really shines as a Programming Volunteer.

Although Mimi sometimes loses an apple seller, she is proud of Luka and happy that he's helping out. “Evergreen Brick Works offers such a fantastic learning opportunity for young people,” says Mimi, adding that this ties right in with their family's goals. “[He’s] learning about community and environmental initiatives—and how to make a difference as one person.”

For Luka it’s simple: “I just love it here, it’s awesome!”

Evergreen welcomes the enthusiasm of young volunteers with the support of an adult parent/guardian. If you know someone who would be interested in getting involved, check out our online calendar for planting and stewardship events across Canada. Or, visit our Current Volunteer Opportunities page to view other opportunities near you!