NVW 2023 Full Story
2023 Volunteer Stories in Waterloo Region
National Volunteer Week
Reception House - Asadllah and Rabia’s Story
Reception House - Asadllah and Rabia’s Story
Asadllah and Rabia, a couple from Afghanistan, arrived in Canada seeking a better life. They found hope in the community support available in the Waterloo Region for newcomers, receiving temporary housing, language training classes, and employment counselling. They were grateful for their warm welcome and support and soon moved into their apartment. They explored their new community and found it full of friendly and welcoming people.
Feeling the value of connection with their new community, Asadllah and Rabia began volunteering at Reception House Waterloo Region, helping refugees and immigrants settle in the area. They assist newcomers with finding permanent housing and job opportunities, navigating the healthcare system, providing emotional support, and allowing families to adjust to their new lives in Canada. Hearing about a pregnant newcomer, Rabia visited her home and provided her with the necessary support and assistance needed. Asadllah and Rabia's actions set an excellent example, showing the importance of kindness, compassion, and empathy.
Asadllah and Rabia's journey demonstrates that with the help of a supportive community, newcomers can participate in weaving together the community through volunteering.
Compass Refugee Centre - Nelson’s Story
Compass Refugee Centre - Nelson’s Story
Nelson never thought that a school assignment could lead him to an opportunity to give back to his community. When Nelson visited the Compass Refugee Centre for a school project, he found a thread of connection to becoming an interpreter at the center well beyond his project.
Nelson has been working with the people at the Compass Refugee Centre, providing much-needed interpretation services to those from different parts of Latin America, such as Colombia and El Salvador. These individuals face difficult situations politically, socially, and economically, and Nelson's abilities as an interpreter has been invaluable in helping them navigate through their challenges.
Motivated by his desire to give back to the community, Nelson spends two hours weekly at the center, gaining experience and honing his skills as an interpreter. He has become an integral part of the Compass Refugee Centre, and his contribution has significantly impacted the lives of those he serves. Nelson's story is a testament to the power of motivation and the importance of community service.
Compass Refugee Centre - Sonya’s Story
Compass Refugee Centre - Sonya’s Story
Sonya had been searching for a way to give back to her community for quite some time but was unsure how to do so. That's when her daughter suggested "Mom, why don't you try volunteering? You love helping others, and so many organizations could use your help.” Sonya knew this was the perfect way to make a positive impact.
Sonya discovered Compass Refugee Centre, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping refugees adjust to their new lives in Canada. Sonya began volunteering at Compass Refugee Centre, helping with Spanish and English translation services for the organization's clients. She found that her language skills were in high demand and that she was able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the refugees she worked with.
Over time, Sonya developed close relationships with many of the refugees at Compass Refugee Centre. She heard their stories of hardship and perseverance, and was inspired by their resilience in adversity. She knew her volunteer work was making a real difference in their lives and helping them feel more welcome and supported in their new community.
Thrift on Kent - Etta’s Story
Thrift on Kent - Etta’s Story
Recently retired, Etta, who has been volunteering for over four decades, has inspired many with her dedication and selflessness. “I just love being with people,” Etta says, “Thrift on Kent is a great place to work.” She and her team in the housewares department at Thrift on Kent scour through collected objects and help find homes for donated items.
Over the years, Etta has volunteered with various organizations, including Girl Guides, hockey, and other sports groups, school programs and most recently with local charities. She enjoys being around people and helping them in any way she can.
Her journey began when she noticed her neighbour’s daughter's Girl Guide troop was going to close due to a lack of leaders. She stepped in to help without hesitation and has never looked back since.
Mother Teresa once said, "I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together, we can do great things.
Fairview Seniors Community - Stephanie’s Story
Fairview Seniors Community - Stephanie’s Story
Stephanie, a retired nurse, has been volunteering at the Fairview Seniors Community for some time. What started as a simple invitation from her girlfriend and daughter became a passion for helping others in need. Every Thursday, Stephanie arrives at the centre, ready to lend a helping hand to the seniors who call it home. She specializes in assisting with dressing and other personal tasks, and her experience as a nurse provides experience in care giving.
It is not just Stephanie's skills that make her an invaluable community member, it’s her warmth, kindness, and genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others. She takes the time to chat with each person, learning about their lives and interests and bringing a little joy and comfort to their day.
Stephanie reminds us of the power of human connection and the impact that a simple act of kindness can have. The value of volunteering lies in the human relationships it creates and a sense of fulfillment and purpose that comes from making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Shelter Movers Waterloo Region - Akanksha’s Story’s
Shelter Movers Waterloo Region - Akanksha’s Story’s
Akanksha has always been passionate about giving back to her community. During her undergraduate studies in Health Studies, she learned about the challenges faced by individuals and families experiencing homelessness, or at risk of homelessness. That's when she first began volunteering with Shelters Movers, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting and supporting those in unstable home situations.
Over time, Akanksha realized that her skills in marketing and communications could be put to good use by helping to raise awareness of the organization and its mission. When the opportunity arose to ¬¬¬¬¬¬help as a Marketing and Communications Manager in 2020, she jumped at the chance.
The best part of her role at Shelters Movers is knowing she positively impacts the lives of those who need it most. By using her skills to help promote the organization and its services, she is helping to break down barriers and empower individuals and families to take control of their lives.
Akanksha has found a sense of purpose and fulfillment that she never thought possible through her work at Shelters Movers Waterloo Region. She is proud to be part of an organization that is making a real difference in the lives of those in her community, and she encourages others to get involved and make a difference too.
March of Dimes - Dan’s Story
March of Dimes - Dan’s Story
Dan is a stroke survivor who has been through a long and challenging recovery journey. He was once a patient struggling to speak and walk after his stroke. But through hard work and determination, Dan made a remarkable recovery.
Dan started volunteering with a stroke recovery chapter at March of Dimes during his recovery process. He found a passion for helping other stroke survivors. He saw firsthand the impact that stroke could have on individuals and their families, and it motivated him to do more to support those going through a similar journey to his own. With a fellow volunteer, Dan helped pioneer the idea of visiting stroke patients in hospitals to cheer them up and offer support.
Through his work, Dan continues to help people affected by stroke, using his lived experience to support and guide those in need. He truly believes that generating a positive mental attitude is the key to overcoming the challenges of stroke. He is committed to helping others find their strength and resilience to recover and thrive
KW Multicultural Centre - Olga’s Story
KW Multicultural Centre - Olga’s Story
Olga is passionate about community service and loves to serve immigrants who come to Canada. Olga learned about the English conversation program offered by the Kitchener Waterloo Multicultural Centre. There are many immigrants who seek help with communicating effectively in English.
Olga worked tirelessly to engage and interact with participants in the program to help them improve their English skills. She researched different teaching techniques and used her knowledge to develop a fun and educational curriculum.
Volunteering here has shown her how every culture is unique, and that respecting and appreciating cultural differences is essential. She has also learned that community service is not just about helping others but also about personal growth and development.
Olga's story is a testament to the power of community service and volunteerism. She used her passion and knowledge to make a positive impact on the lives of others, and in the process, she grew as a person. Volunteering threads the fabric of our community, binding us together in a tapestry of compassion and service.
Thrift on Kent - Marg’s Story
Thrift on Kent - Marg’s Story
One day, while shopping at Thrift on Kent, Marg had a conversation with one of the employees. She learned that a volunteer position was available, and she jumped at the opportunity to get involved. Marg had been volunteering for various community organizations for years. She loved being a part of something bigger than herself and positively impacting her community. She had volunteered for sports teams when her children were younger and made many great connections through those experiences.
She quickly became a regular volunteer at the thrift store, spending five to six hours a week sorting through donations and helping customers find what they need. Knowing her efforts contribute to the greater good, she feels “like a small cog in a giant wheel.”
Reception House - Kimberley’s Story
Reception House - Kimberley’s Story
Kimberley, inspired by her parents' stories of overcoming adversity as refugees of the Vietnam war, motivated her to give back to her community and help others in need. As she began her journey at Reception House, she met many other refugee families who had similar stories of struggle to her parents.
Despite the challenges of racism and violence in her community, Kimberley finds hope and support through organizations like Reception House. She started volunteering a couple of days a week with their children’s program, helping kids with their English language skills and providing them with a safe and welcoming space to play and learn.
Kimberley sees firsthand the impact that volunteerism has on people’s lives. One little girl, in particular, joined the program, fearful and hesitant to play or socialize. Over time, Kimberley watched as the girl grew more confident and started participating in activities with the other children.
Volunteering is not only an opportunity to make a difference in community but also a chance to learn and grow as a person. The staff there say that “the contributions of volunteers like Kimberley amplify our ability to welcome refugees and shine a light on the refugee journey."
March of Dimes -Tina’s Story
March of Dimes -Tina’s Story
Some time ago, a young woman named Tina suffered a stroke. It was a tough journey for her, but eventually, she became stronger and realized she could help others with similar experiences. That is why she decided to start volunteering at March of Dimes Canada.
Tina spends five hours every week with on-site patients. She sees firsthand how a stroke can change a person's life. She also sees how strong and resilient these people can be. They inspire her to keep going and to continue her volunteer work. Through volunteering, Tina has grown into a more confident person. She has learned to be patient and empathetic. She has met many new people, both volunteers and patients and made lasting friendships.
Tina visits hospitals and rehabilitation centers, talking to stroke survivors and sharing her stories of hope and recovery. Years have passed, and Tina has continued to volunteer at March of Dimes Canada. She knows that stroke patients will always exist and so she will continue. Tina's recovery journey led her to a life of service, and she is grateful for every moment.
Shelter Movers Waterloo Region - Yvonne’s Story
Shelter Movers Waterloo Region - Yvonne’s Story
Yvonne started her volunteering journey with a strong desire to give back to her community. Working at Shelters Movers, she helps people move their belongings and transition into new homes. Yvonne enjoys meeting new volunteers and helping people, which makes her more extroverted and sociable in her personal life.
Yvonne found an opportunity to work in a team while search www.volunteerwr.ca. As a volunteer Yvonne has learned about different social justice movements and is continuing to learn about the issues surrounding domestic violence against women. Yvonne pours her heart and soul into each move, leaving a memorable mark on each person's life. Yvonne enjoys working with Todd at Shelter Movers, he has supported Yvonne in her role.
As Yvonne continues to volunteer, she realizes that the strength and unity of her community are built upon the actions of people who are willing to give their time and energy to help those in need. Stitching the fabric of their community together, Yvonne and her fellow volunteers bring hope to those who had lost it and helped make a difference in their lives.
Community Support Connections - Dave’s Story
Community Support Connections - Dave’s Story
Dave has always been passionate about helping people. After retiring, he had more time to give back to his community. He began volunteering at Community Support Connections, an organization that provides services to seniors and adults with disabilities.
One of Dave's primary duties was delivering meals to the elderly in the community. He drives around town six to eight hours a week, dropping off food to those in need. His wife is also involved with driving for Community Support Connections. Just like her, Dave chats with those receiving meals, asking how they are doing and listening to their stories. He finds that his background as a project manager helps him communicate effectively and build rapport with the seniors he serves.
Dave develops strong relationships with the people he helps as he continues volunteering. They appreciated his kindness and dedication and often looked forward to seeing him each week. His work with the Community Support Connections allowed him to give back to his community while developing lifelong relationships and finding personal fulfillment
Shelter Movers Waterloo Region - Todd’s Story
Shelter Movers Waterloo Region - Todd’s Story
After being able to retire early, Todd found himself with more free time and a desire to give back to his community. That is when he discovered Shelters Movers, a volunteer organization that helps people in need move their belongings to new homes or storage units.
Todd knew that this was the perfect opportunity for him to use his skills as to make a difference in his community; he wanted to keep active and support others who needed it.
Todd started doing about 3 to 5 moves a month. He has a talent for packing things in a truck and always ensures that the clients' belongings are safe and secure during transport. He has learned that he enjoys interacting with the clients and hearing their stories and that they appreciate his kindness and dedication and often thank him for making their move easier.
Over time, Todd has become better and more efficient at his job. He is proud to have done 85 moves since he started volunteering. Todd made real connections with the people he served through Shelter Movers’ volunteer work.
Compass Refugee Centre - Juan’s Story
Compass Refugee Centre - Juan’s Story
“Whatever I am doing for my community is significantly little, but it means so much to the people that I am helping.” Juan has always felt a strong connection to his community. So when he saw a Facebook post looking for interpreters at the Compass Refugee Centre, he responded.
Every week, Juan would spend two hours at the centre, translating for refugees and immigrants who were seeking help with interpreters. It was hard work, but it was also incredibly rewarding. Juan felt like he was making a real difference in people's lives, and that gave him a sense of purpose that he had never experienced before.
As time went on, Juan's skills as an interpreter continued to grow. He became more confident and more comfortable working with clients, and he started to develop a real rapport with the people he was helping. He began to see them not just as clients, but as friends and members of his community, and he knew that he had to do everything he could to help them. Juan continues to work tirelessly to help the community members.
He realized that he had found his true calling as an interpreter and as a volunteer. He knew that he would continue to work with the Compass Refugee Centre for as long as he was able, helping to make a difference in the lives of his fellow immigrants and refugees.
Fairview Seniors Community - Elijah’s Story
Fairview Seniors Community - Elijah’s Story
Elijah has always been interested in helping others, so when he had the opportunity to do a placement at Fairview Seniors Community as part of his recreation program at Conestoga College, he jumped at the chance. From the first day, he knew he had found the perfect fit. He loved leading workout and recreation classes in the morning, and supervising the fitness room and fitness classes in the afternoon. He felt learning valuable skills that would help him in his future career.
But it wasn't just the job experience that Elijah appreciated. He had recently moved to the area, and he was grateful for the chance to learn more about the city and its people. Working with the seniors at Fairview has taught him patience and the importance of effective communication, especially when dealing with different cultures.
Elijah is thrilled to see how the seniors are dedicated to working on themselves and how they enjoyed each other's company during the classes. He is touched by the loyalty of the regulars who sign up consistently, and how they appreciate his company.
Elijah will always cherish his memories of his time at Fairview Seniors Community. He hopes that others will be inspired to follow in his footsteps and discover the joys of volunteering with seniors. He would advise them to appreciate the unique qualities of each individual they worked with.
Community Support Connections - Donna’s Story
Community Support Connections - Donna’s Story
Donna has always been passionate about giving back to her community. She moved to Waterloo a few years ago and immediately looked for ways to get involved. That's when her neighbour told her about Volunteer Waterloo Region. Donna checked the website and found a perfect opportunity - volunteering with the Community Supports Connection, a non-profit organization that served meals to the elderly and disabled through their Meals on Wheels program.
Donna has now been volunteering with Meals on Wheels for four and a half years, and it has been an incredible experience. She enjoys meeting the clients, delivering meals to them, and spending time chatting with them. Donna has a different route every week, which means that she is able to meet a variety of clients from diverse backgrounds. Through volunteering, Donna has learned so much about Waterloo Region. Donna has also developed skills such as patience, compassion, and empathy.
One of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering for Donna has been the connections she has made. She has met many fabulous people throughout her day, from clients to fellow volunteers.
Overall, volunteering with Community Supports Connection has been a privilege for Donna. She feels grateful to have the opportunity to impact people’s lives positively and is inspired to continue giving back to the community in any way she can.
Cambridge Memorial Hospital - Carmen’s Story
Cambridge Memorial Hospital - Carmen’s Story
Carmen is passionate about patient care and finds joy in connecting with people. Her family has several medical professionals, and she was exposed to the field from an early age. However, it wasn't until she started volunteering at the hospital that her dream of joining the medical community became a reality.
Carmen volunteers at the Cambridge Memorial hospital as a hospital ambassador. She welcomes patients, and assists them in finding their way, or just with comforting conversation. She enjoys being a part of their journey, providing comfort and support in any way she can. she found that her experience taught her much about gratitude, and helped het discovered new ways of approaching people. Her volunteering experience was a mixture of personal and professional growth, and she found herself learning more about herself with each passing day.
Carmen has built close relationships with the staff at the hospital and has several memorable moments with doctors and patients alike. She finds that the relationships she has built with patients are the most fulfilling, and she cherishes the connections she has made with them. Carmen's volunteering journey at Cambridge Memorial Hospital has become an integral part of her life, and she looks forward to each opportunity to make a difference in someone's life.
Through her volunteering experience, Carmen realized that she wants to pursue a career in the medical field. She is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Cambridge Memorial Hospital community and knows that her experiences there will stay with her forever.
Family & Children’s Services - Robert’s Story
Family & Children’s Services - Robert’s Story
Robert has always been interested in giving back to his community, but he wasn't sure where to start. Searching online through Volunteer Waterloo Region, he learned about Family Children's Services of the Waterloo Region and their mission to help families and children in need.
At first, Robert started volunteering by helping families who needed an extra hand with their children. He quickly found that he enjoyed spending time with the children and decided to expand his volunteering efforts. He began to mentor and tutor children in the organization's after-school program, helping them with their homework and teaching them new skills.
Robert found he was not only helping the children, but he was also benefiting from the experience. He became more patient, and a stronger communicator, both personally and professionally.
One memorable experience for him is with a child who showed a keen interest in exotic cars. Robert arranged for the child to attend a car show in Guelph. Seeing the child's eyes light up with excitement and knowing that he had helped make it happen was a truly rewarding experience. “Up until that point, he had only really seen them in video games or on TV.” This experience reminded him of the importance of volunteering and how small gestures can have a big impact. It is a memory Robert will always remember and cherish.
Cambridge Shelter - David’s Story
Cambridge Shelter - David’s Story
David volunteers at “The Bridges,” a shelter operated by the Cambridge Shelter Corporation. It has been a difficult journey for him, but he is grateful for the opportunity to help people who were struggling just like he had in his past.
David himself had faced numerous challenges in his life, including homelessness, and unemployment; after overcoming these struggles, David values the opportunity to give back to the community that helped him in his time of need. Being able to see the positive impact he is making through volunteering is very fulfilling. David spends time prepping in the kitchen, helping clean up, and taking care of some other heavy duties. He always has a smile on his face and believes his role includes “Making a joke, if you can, make them smile if you can, make them laugh if you can…”
His success in his volunteer role has inspired him to take up other volunteering initiatives in his free time, working on making Cambridge a more connected and welcoming place to be.
Through his work and volunteer efforts, David has become a valued member of the community. He loves how he can see the changes and successes, sometimes subtly, in the clients he serves regularly. He is proud of what he has accomplished and looks forward to continuing to make a difference in the lives of others.
Cambridge Shelter Corporation – Liam’s Story
Cambridge Shelter Corporation – Liam’s Story
Liam started his volunteering journey like many students in Waterloo Region; he needed to complete his 40 hours of Community Involvement to graduate. “I really understand why they do it…It gets people involved in community who otherwise might not have done so.”
At Bridges, he started washing dishes and assisting with food preparation, and he found that he actually enjoyed being part of a team and helping out in any way he could. As Liam continued to volunteer at The Bridges, he began to form connections with the people around him. The kitchen manager took him under his wing, teaching him valuable food preparation skills.
Over time, Liam's commitment to volunteering at The Bridges is continuing to strengthen. He dedicates more of his free time to the shelter now spending up to five hours a week there. He is gaining valuable skills and experience and becoming more physically fit and socially connected.
Liam now feels that his decision to continue to volunteer at The Bridges is one of the best things he has ever done. It has not only helped him overcome his shyness and connect with others, but it has also given him a sense of fulfillment and purpose that he has been searching for. He will always be grateful to The Bridges and the community of people who have welcomed him with open arms.
KidSport - Rachel’s Story
KidSport - Rachel’s Story
Becoming a part of a community is a big part of belonging in a new city. This is one of the factors that drove Rachel MacKay to start volunteering with KidSport here in Waterloo Region. Having time off during her summer break from studying at Wilfrid Laurier University, she wanted to find somewhere to make an impact on the world around her.
Her role at KidSport is as an events associate, which has her involved in a range of activities from event planning to media relations to helping out with an event when the day comes. Although she was hesitant at first, she took her role to heart, and started trying out every project that was given to her. She is grateful for all of the opportunities, especially public speaking, that being at KidSport has given to her. “Coming from someone who was so socially anxious with getting involved with public speaking and volunteering, it truly is rewarding on a personal level, and it feels good to be able to give back to the community and help others,” she says.
What really inspires Rachel to continue to volunteer is that sports affected her life when she was younger. Realizing just how important it was for her socialization, exercise, and being a part of the community, is something that she feels everyone should be able to access. She even had the opportunity at one of her events to get to connect with some professional athletes who shared this vision, and wanted to support KidSport in making sure that sports stay accessible to every youth.
This connection to others has really made Rachel feel like she is woven together with her community, getting the opportunity to connect with people who love how sports bring people together. She gets to see her impact on the community in both the kids that participate, and the athletes who have come back to support KidSport. Just another way in which volunteering is strengthening the fabric of Waterloo Region.
Kitchener Public Library - Puneet’s Story
Kitchener Public Library - Puneet’s Story
Volunteering in high school is a different experience, especially when you are just getting into grade 9. Puneet took this as an opportunity to both complete her community engagement hours, and also learn some valuable life skills along the way. Her time at the Kitchener Public Library as a youth chef and program assistant has been a great fit for her.
Puneet believes that the library is a fantastic place that really offers a safe and welcoming space to people of all ages. She likes that in her role, she gets to help create “a comfortable and exciting place.” Coupled with the ability to improve her skills and really become more sociable, volunteering has made a huge impact on Puneet.
“Volunteering is the first step to boosting your confidence,” she relates. She wants everyone who is considering volunteering to take that first step. Even the younger generation, in this way, is working to weave our community together through supporting those around them as advocates for volunteering in their everyday lives.
Cambridge Shelter – Ken’s Story
Cambridge Shelter – Ken’s Story
Volunteering for some is just a fundamental part of life. The need to give back is a key part of fulfillment and joy that makes their heart full. This is the case for Ken, a kitchen Volunteer at the Bridges at the Cambridge Shelter.
While at first he was just taking care of dishes, he started to learn how to help out more and more in the kitchen for service times. Along with meeting great volunteers, he also has learned the important lesson of how to properly cut onions so as not to cry, an important life lesson. The real gain for him, however, is the feeling he gets from seeing just how appreciative everyone is from receiving the support and meals that they might not otherwise have. He can see that the people he helps look just like him, and he has met some of them before; just being able to provide a meal without judgment is important to why he continues to help out.
In such a simple way, Ken’s experience has brought him closer to community, and helped to reinforce the fabric that is the Waterloo Region community. “Volunteering is a very important part of life ... you want to help people that maybe are younger than you so you can help build them up... Volunteering keeps you connected.”
