Since the summer of 2013, the Doukhobor Discovery Centre (DDC) has seen many improvements and upgrades. The Kootenay Doukhobor Historical Society, a charitable non-profit made up entirely of volunteers, has been working tirelessly to make the DDC a world class museum, and a significant increase in tourism has been noticed as a result. Without volunteer efforts the DDC would not be the place it is today.
Would you like to participate? We invite you to explore the variety of volunteer opportunities available at the Doukhobor Discovery Centre. Please contact us if you wish to get involved.
The Village Museum at the Doukhobor Discovery Centre is located on traditional Doukhobor orchard land. Some of the original heritage fruit trees remain on site. Volunteers with an interest in horticulture are welcome to assist with the care of the heritage trees and the planting and care of new trees, with the opportunity to receive some of the harvest of fruit as well.
Doukhobor gardeners were well-known for their bounty of fresh produce. They grew all of their own vegetables to make their famous Borshch (beet soup). A "Contemporary Heritage Garden" is planned for the Village, where locals can help grow the traditional garden vegetables used in Doukhobor cuisine. Volunteers who contribute to planting and care would be welcome to keep a portion of the harvest, with the remaining harvest being sold to raise funds for the DDC.
As proud supporters of Castlegar's Comminities in Bloom, the Doukhobor Discovery Centre flower beds are planted and cared for each season to create the best possible show in honour of all the Doukhobors who loved to garden. Volunteers who love to garden are welcome to come and help plant and maintain the stunning seasonal display.
The Doukhobor Discovery Centre is working together with the BC/Yukon chapter of the Canadian Peony Society to create Peony beds on the grounds of the Doukhobor Village for all visitors to enjoy.
All of the artifacts at the Doukhobor Discovery Centre are either donated from original villages or have a Doukhobor history. The entire collection at the DDC is being digitally catalogued according to museum standards. Once everything is catalogued, a regular inspection routine will take place. Volunteers with a passion for history and artifacts are welcome to assist in the slow and careful process of acquisition, cataloguing and care.
The Kootenay Doukhobor Historical Society employs summer students to guide tours and maintain the gift shop. During the shoulder seasons, before and after students arrive, volunteers are needed to assist with operations - Doukhobor heritage is not necessary, as volunteers will be trained by the Museum Administrator.