Despite the long hours of knocking on doors and answering phones, volunteers were thrilled to be a part of Dowson’s campaign and excited about the future of the party.

“I love it,” long-time NDP supporter Francis Murphy said of being a part of Dowson’s campaign. “She’s a very, very strong candidate.”

Students to retirees donned the party’s orange colours with t-shirts and pins, and for many of the volunteers, such as Margo Ravon, their first experience of getting involved in politics had everything to do with the local candidate and an opportunity to create change.

“I really want more women in politics and I think Anne is just a very exciting woman candidate,” said Ravon. “As soon as I knew she was running I felt like I wanted to help.”

The following night, Liberal candidate Marc Garneau took time out of his busy campaign schedule to thank his team of volunteers at a wine and cheese event on Tuesday.

The mood was light as volunteers and supporters filled the Liberal campaign office on Greene Avenue to enjoy a night off in what has been a long campaign that many had originally expected to end Sept. 8 with a by-election.

“When somebody is willing to give up their time for extended periods like that, I mean that shows you dedication, so I feel very fortunate to be well supported,” said Garneau.

Volunteers of all ages turned out to celebrate, including the campaign’s youngest members, Kiara Kaminski, 16, and Nicolas Salbaing, 14.

“I’ve been into politics since I was about 10 years old, so I felt this was more hands-on experience,” said Kaminski, who has been making phone calls and going door-to-door to help draw voters.

Salbaing, who was celebrating his birthday by becoming a volunteer, had his sights set on top job in Ottawa. “I’ve always wanted to be prime minister of Canada,” he said.