Known as Thunder in biker circles (Acton owns four motorcycles, among them a Harley Davidson and an off road Honda), the 63-year-old Ile Bizard resident is a man of many talents and boundless energy.
“The man is everywhere, helping out in a wide variety of endeavours, and truly making a difference,” says Kathleen Greenfield, coordinator of volunteer services at Volunteer West Island.
When Acton retired after working as a mechanic for 25 years at Air Canada, he decided to begin a new phase in his life; one where volunteering would become a priority.
Known as Coach Ken by many local West Island boys and girls, Acton, an avid sports enthusiast and athlete, turned his interest into a gift for the community, regularly assembling pick-up teams for various sports, including hockey, even arranging for the loan of equipment for the season.
In addition to playing and coaching sports, Acton even had his own motorcycle column in Cités Nouvelles from 1991 to 1999. His biker name “Thunder” also became his pen name.
“I’ve always liked keeping busy and my late wife and I were always involved in a number of projects,” explains Acton. “When she passed away, I became very involved with Volunteer West Island, and began lending a hand at the West Island Women’s Shelter and the Women’s Shelter in Lachine, picking up food items and donations and frequently assisting clients and their kids move their belongings into apartments.”
Acton is also a driver with VWI’s Meals on Wheels program, delivering hot meals to seniors and to those with reduced mobility.
“You really become acquainted with some of these people,” he says. “They’re lonely and just want to talk and touch base with someone.”
The affable handyman is everywhere, helping neighbours out, taking on the odd part-time job, and, for those who don’t know, the man in the Santa Claus suit at Angrignon Mall for the past 11 years.
“I see way too many people holding on to their jobs, waiting to tack on a few more dollars on their pension, and resisting retirement,” he says. “Life is short and there’s so much you can do in your later years. Seniors have so much experience and so many skills they can share with others. Part time jobs are everywhere, if you want to continue working, but, in the meantime, Meals on Wheels is desperately in need of volunteers – especially during the holidays.”
The straight-talking Acton doesn’t mince words when he describes how a life of temporary inaction made him feel.
“When I retired, I did nothing for about six months and was bored out of my mind.”
Volunteer West Island has a two-fold mission: to recruit volunteers and to implement social programs reducing isolation and assisting seniors to remain autonomous. They also offer on-site and outreach activities and classes for seniors.
VWI recruits volunteers for over 100 non-profit community organizations, depending on interests and availability. These include involvement with children, teens, seniors, sports and cultural activities, health and support organizations, animal rescue networks, environmental groups, etc. There is something for everyone and every schedule.
For information about programs, services, and volunteering opportunities, explore their website: www.cabvwi.org or call (514) 457-5445 # 227.
