The theme for this National Volunteer Week is ‘Every Moment Matters’, which highlights the importance of every volunteer and each contribution they make at a moment when we need to support each other more than ever. We appreciate their time, skills, empathy and creativity which is vital to the continuity, strength and well-being of our programs and communities.
Our volunteers' time, efforts and smiles are felt throughout the organization. We couldn't do the work we do without them!
Last year, almost 500 volunteers and 65 corporate groups contributed their time, culminating in 17,000+ hours to our organization and the people we serve. Their efforts were spread throughout our many programs and services, including housing, food programs, support groups, employment services, child care and many more.
To celebrate the theme ‘Every Moment Matters’, we wanted to ask some of our volunteers to share a special YWCA Metro Vancouver moment that stuck out to them, whether it was a moment that made them want to volunteer, a special moment that stuck out about volunteering or a moment that made them appreciate a volunteer.
The most memorable moments for me as a volunteer in the fitness orientation realm are when I witness the transformation of someone who arrives at the Y with zero confidence and uncertainty about what to do in the gym, only to leave with newfound knowledge and excitement to embark on their fitness journey.
What makes these moments truly special is realizing that I've played a role, no matter how small, in guiding them along their path to better health and well-being. Providing support, encouragement, and imparting knowledge that empowers them fills me with a deep sense of fulfillment and joy.
These experiences serve as powerful reminders of the impact volunteering can have on individuals and communities alike. Knowing that I've helped someone take those initial steps toward a healthier, happier life fills me with gratitude and inspires me to continue contributing in any way I can. - Waad Shurbaji, YWCA Volunteer
This is a friendly environment to volunteer in, it is a great opportunity to socialize and develop my skills. - Monireh N, YWCA Volunteer
I can’t hide how much I was overwhelmed by the reality of how many people were looking for support to cover their basic needs and I was also inspired by the generosity, empathy, and kindness that you, the YWCA Crabtree Corner staff, and volunteers contributed to bring hope to the participants in the breakfast program. This volunteer opportunity was a gift to my soul."
"I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for allowing us to take part in the Special Breakfast at YWCA Crabtree Corner. It was truly heartwarming to have the opportunity to prepare and serve breakfast to 90 participants. I was impressed with all the YWCA CTC staff's dedication and enthusiasm. Their commitment and passion for supporting their clients was evident. On the other hand, I also want to thank you for giving the QI Team the chance to engage and work in a different work environment. It was refreshing to connect with the team without the usual discussion: data quality, reports, systems, etc. - YWCA Employee and Volunteer
Watching my mom volunteer in the kitchen got me interested in cooking ever since I was young - YWCA Volunteer
At the end of the season last year on the rooftop garden, one of the volunteers who had a passion for expertly crafted hand tools for gardening, brought her tool cleaning and sharpening kit to the final session. She did an impromptu lesson for all of us on how to take care of our tools by using a 5 step process in cleaning and sharpening. As we all took apart our tools and cleaned each part slowly and carefully we chatted about expertly crafted hand tools from Japan and discussed all the pros and cons of different types and styles of tools for gardening. It was very educational and we all walked away with a new skill and appreciation - Kim, YWCA Rooftop Garden Coordinator
Volunteering changes people's lives. Whether you are on the giving or receiving end of it, it makes a huge impact and we couldn't do the work we do without our volunteers! To learn more about our volunteer opportunities, visit ywcavan.org/volunteer.
