National Volunteer Week – the FCMQ thanks its 4,500 volunteers
April 4th, 2018 – With the annual economic impact from snowmobiling in the province standing at $3.27 billion, the size and significance of the snowmobile industry and the passion and determination of its supporters and contributors are clear. Against the backdrop of National Volunteer Week, which takes place from April 15th to 21st, 2018, the Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec (FCMQ) wishes to shed light on the exemplary work carried out by its 4,500 volunteers.
Did you know that the snowmobile industry is one of the select few recreational activities in Quebec that rests on the work of volunteers? These dedicated individuals, generously contributing their time among the province’s 200 snowmobile clubs, are responsible for the maintenance and safety of snowmobile trails. These volunteers are the pillars of the snowmobile industry and it's thanks to their work and dedication that snowmobilers can enjoy our 33,000 km of trails, among the best in the world. Their passion is exceeded only by their enthusiasm to promote and contribute to the development of the activity. Whether it’s installing trail signage, operating groomers, repairing machinery, clearing trails, patrolling trails to ensure everyone’s safety, negotiating land-use permissions, measuring ice thickness or carrying out administrative duties, their work requires in-depth knowledge. Their work, however, is often done out of plain view.
FCMQ programs
Conscious of the challenges faced by snowmobile clubs in Quebec, the board of directors of the FCMQ decided, in 2013, to set aside $1 from each trail permit sold to help fund a program dedicated to recognize and thank volunteers. In 2015, the FCMQ joined forces with Kimpex to launch the Kimpex volunteer action program. This initiative provides for the creation of a $100,000 annual fund which is then distributed via 400 gift certificates valued at $250 each among the 4,500 volunteers active in the FCMQ's 200 member clubs.
The FCMQ wishes to warmly thank each and every snowmobiler who volunteers his/her time to the development and promotion of the Quebec snowmobile industry.
4,500 times thank you!
About the FCMQ
The Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec, a sectorial tourism association, is a not-for-profit organisation that has been serving its members for more than 42 years. It is dedicated to the development and promotion of safe snowmobiling throughout Quebec. The FCMQ defends the interests of its 200 member clubs and their 90,000 individual members. More than 4,500 volunteers contribute in excess of 800,000 hours annually towards the maintenance of the provincial snowmobile trail network.
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Media relations - Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec (FCMQ)
maperreault@fcmq.qc.ca 514 252-3076 or 514 268-2649