Dozens of volunteers were recognised on National Volunteer Day for the many ways they contribute to the Island.

Brian Madeiros of the Centre on Philanthropy said there is a misconception that volunteers have an excess of time on their hands.

"Volunteers have jobs, families and responsibilities," he said last week. "The reason they are able to volunteer is quite simply they care enough to do so. They care about our community and realise they have something to share and do (share)."

As part of The Royal Gazette's 'Dare to Care' campaign raising the profile of volunteers and the work they do to better the Island, this paper has chosen to profile awardees Clarence Smith, Jekia Knights-Fubler and David Kerr.

Mr. Smith, 68, has volunteered with Bermuda Track and Field Association as a coach for the past 30 years.

"I've been volunteering all my life. I suppose the common answer for why I do it is because I love to help," he said.

"My satisfaction is the fact the kids are doing well and become successful and make something of themselves. Most of them go on to be in college or get jobs."

He believes that now, more than ever, it is important to get involved in volunteering.

"We don't have a problem with the children, we have a problem with the (lack of) leaders. I have to work like everyone else, but I still find time to be with the children to help them any way I can.

"There is a need. There is a greater need now than there was when I started because there were far more people giving their time then."

Miss Knights-Fubler, 17, has served as a candy striper with The Hospitals Auxiliary of Bermuda Hospitals Board for nearly four years.

The CedarBridge Academy student said: "When people are down or when I give little bags to new mothers on the wards it makes them happy.

"When I see a smile on their faces, it puts a smile on my face."

David Kerr has volunteered with the St. George's Historical Society for the past two years.

The 68-year-old spends time interacting with schoolchildren visiting the museum and also takes tourists around the printery on Wednesdays.

He also gave his time to make repairs to the authentic replica of a 14th Century Gutenburg printing press.

"Volunteering allows you to give back to the community as well as presenting some challenges on occasion. This seems to give our lives some meaning," he said.

"Everyone of us has many latent skills that can be of use to institutions like the museum. This can expand our horizons and provide some personal satisfaction at the same time."

There were 66 other volunteers recognised on Monday. Minister of Culture Neletha Butterfield and US Consul General Grace Shelton were in attendance.