Volunteers

Voracious volunteer trades stethoscope for choirbook

Retired nurse Helen Cooper has spent the last 20-plus years volunteering at arts organizations and festivals throughout the city.

Her longest ongoing role is with the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival, where for more than two decades she took on various roles before becoming a team leader.

She’s helped out at Manitoba Theatre for Young People for 12 years, is a regular choir host during Manitoba Choral Society’s ChoralFest every autumn and recently started volunteering at Prairie Theatre Exchange, where she’s been the cashier at the café, scanned tickets and greeted theatregoers at the door, among other duties.

Originally from the U.K., Cooper, 60, moved to Canada in 1991 and worked at Children’s Hospital and St Boniface Hospital until her retirement last year.

Introducing students to the wonderful world of volunteering

Jasmin Knight has built her career around giving back to the community.

Fuelled by her own history of helping, the student concierge at Heartland International English School began organizing volunteer placements for mature students on a casual basis.

The positive feedback from students, many of whom have never volunteered before, led to the creation of the school’s Volunteer + Study program, which launched last year.

Now Knight, 31, says she can offer students a more formal method of applying for volunteer positions in the city.

Ignite Volunteerism by getting involved in passion project

National Volunteer Week kicks off next week, and the theme — Ignite Volunteerism — is a call to action encouraging Manitobans to “find your thing” and discover ways to contribute to the community.

The campaign comes during a decline in volunteerism rates across the country.

In 2018, 41 per cent of Canadians participated in volunteer activities for charitable and non-profit organizations, Statistics Canada data show. That decreased to 32 per cent in 2023.

The reduction can be attributed to a few factors, including challenges wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic, high inflation and the rising cost of living.

Caring for native flowers and grasses helps former adult educator find ‘hope and joy in a dark time in the world’

After a career guiding newcomers through the logistics of life in Winnipeg, from registering with a family doctor to figuring out the transit system, Gerry Pearson turned her sights toward helping the city’s native plants settle back into place.

Brandon resident‘s volunteer journey grounded in giving kids sport opportunities

Brandon resident Scott Kirk’s volunteering journey with Sport Manitoba started in 2019 when he applied to serve as mission staff for the Western Canada Summer Games.

Since then Kirk has volunteered in multiple provincial and national competitions in summer and winter, taking on various essential roles.

“Mission staff are the conduit between host society and the teams,” he explains. “We make sure the games run as smoothly as they can. Our goal is to make sure coaches, managers and athletes can focus on the sport while we deal with everything else that may pop up along the way.”

“Everything else” ranges from logistics to problem-solving. Last summer Kirk found himself co-ordinating meals when scheduling conflicts left athletes without their lunches.

95-year-old happy to help others in nursing home

Emily Kosack walks at Holy Family nursing home every day from 2-3 p.m.

She covers a distance of nearly four kilometres on her daily rounds, a broad smile on her face as she greets residents, staff and visitors.

Although she recently injured a hip, Kosack is still able to stroll swiftly, thanks to her red walking aid, which she playfully refers to as her “boyfriend.”

“It’s the best kind of boyfriend,” she says with a twinkle in her eye, dissolving into giggles she continues ‘”the kind of boyfriend who doesn’t talk back.”

After 43-year career at the zoo, Janice Martin returns to lend a hand

Armed with a zoology degree from the University of Manitoba, Janice Martin started work at Assiniboine Park Zoo in 1980 and never looked back.

She spent 43 years in various roles at the zoo until she retired in 2023. Retirement, however, was just a long lunch break for Martin. After four months away, she was back as a dedicated volunteer.

“I first started in Aunt Sally’s Farm in the summer of 1976 before going into university in the fall. Right after I graduated, there was an opening at the zoo. It was the perfect opportunity and I grabbed it. I worked my way through different areas over the years, first as a zookeeper, then a supervisor and finally as a curator for 10 years before I retired,” Martin, 68, says.

She volunteers approximately three times a week. For two of those days, she supports the zoo’s enrichment program by creating items to engage and stimulate natural animal behaviour.

Volunteering at aviation museum sparks love of learning, sharing knowledge for former Air Force pilot

Gary Hook was a fighter pilot, commanding officer and senior flight instructor during his 43-year career in the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Hook, 72, piloted more than 15 types of aircraft across Canada and Europe.

These days, the aviation buff volunteers as a tour guide and gallery interpreter at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada, at 2088 Wellington Ave.

“There’s no shortage of good stories to tell about the aircraft, the people and the eras of aviation they flew in,” Hook says.

Retired nurse doesn’t mind doing laundry to help raise money for Children’s Hospital Foundation

Donna Askew has been doing other people’s laundry for more than 20 years, but she doesn’t mind. It’s all for a good cause.

It’s fair to say Askew has washed, dried, mended and hung up thousands of shirts, blouses, dresses, T-shirts and trousers during her tenure as volunteer laundress at the Nearly New Shop at 961 Portage Ave.

“You name it, I’ve washed it… underwear and socks and lots of bedding and tablecloths and runners… if you’ve washed it at home in your washer, I’ve washed it in mine,” she says, laughing.

The shop attracts more than 50 customers daily, many who have come to rely on it.

GOAT mindset aims to give youth hope, goals — and two hearts

Michael DePeazer turns pain into purpose and death into direction.

In 2021, the Waverley West resident’s brother, Mitch, died of a drug overdose at the age of 39. DePeazer recalls how his brother, a drywall taper and musician, was always willing to help those around him because he cared so deeply about people.

“I call him the man with two hearts,” DePeazer says.

The 46-year-old has a theory about what happens when someone you love dies. He believes that you take on one of the deceased’s characteristics — something you yourself might be lacking — and you change for the better.

Brandon man taking on punishing 3,500-km cycling route for cancer research

A Brandon cyclist is gearing up for the ride of a lifetime in support of cancer research.

Grant Hamilton is heading to Europe this week to join Tour 21, an annual event that sees a team of amateur cyclists ride the full Tour de France route, one week ahead of the professionals.

The team will pedal more than 3,500 km in 21 days, including climbs and summits in the Pyrenees mountains and the French Alps. It’s part of an effort to raise nearly $2 million for Cure Leukaemia, the official charity partner of the Tour de France.

Cure Leukaemia funds clinical trials, driving global advancements in blood cancer treatment and impacting those affected by the disease.

Turning Leaf Support Services founder knows people with mental illnesses benefit when organizations are on the same page

Barkley Engel believes organizations that help people living with mental illness need to work together. That’s why he’s involved for both his work and volunteer commitments.

Engel is the founder and CEO of Turning Leaf Support Services, a non-profit that provides crisis and treatment services to people living with mental illness and intellectual challenges. He also volunteers at the Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba, a self-help organization dedicated to supporting, educating and advocating for those with mental illnesses.

“It’s apparent to me that the work that needs to be done can only be done in partnership with all these other organizations that are working so hard,” says Engel, who joined the association’s board of directors last year.

In addition to his desire to connect and share ideas with colleagues in the field, Engel attributes his interest in joining the board to his “own long experience with mental illness.”

Pat on the back for years of service: Manitoba volunteers recognized

Two volunteers were among the 18 people celebrated for their contribution to the tourism industry when Travel Manitoba and Tourism Winnipeg handed out their annual awards this month.

Nick Sikich of FortWhyte Alive was named Winnipeg’s volunteer of the year. Carolyn Weiss from the Friends of Lower Fort Garry received the provincial honour during a ceremony at Fort Garry Place on April 10.

“It didn’t hit me until the next morning when I was volunteering,” says Sikich, 78. “The kudos offered by the employees was quite overwhelming. (The award) was appreciated and it seemed to please them as much as it pleased me, so it was nice to find that out.”

Weiss, 39, says it was humbling and exciting to receive the recognition.

Latinas Manitoba celebrates five years of connection

A Facebook group that was started when COVID-19 arrived in Manitoba has turned into a non-profit organization that supports Winnipeg’s Latin American community.

Fernanda Vallejo is the founder of Latinas Manitoba, which offers free and low-cost programs that assist newcomers. The organization has a special focus on empowering women.

The 35-year-old Transcona resident started the Latinas Manitoba Facebook group in March 2020 to create a network of women for the sharing of information and resources.

The group also helps people who need items such as food and clothing.

’This is the place to be’: Cheer Board volunteer thrilled to help

As a team lead at the Christmas Cheer Board, Terry Sharman is the go-to when there’s a conversation that might not have a happy ending.

Sharman, who retired from his job as a customer service representative at MPI in 2023, knows that asking questions can often get to the heart of a difficult matter — and maybe even change the outcome.

The retiree began volunteering with the Cheer Board last year as he said he’s not a person to sit around and do nothing. This holiday season, he’s been at the Century Street headquarters pretty much every day.

In the past, he’s been a hamper checker and taken applications over the phone. This year, Sharman is often the first person people applying for or picking up hampers talk to. Sometimes, part of that conversation involves questions about personal finances.

Tutors provide young newcomers with keys to open important doors in new home

Wanted: kind, patient, open-minded people interested in volunteering with newcomers.

The Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba is looking for homework tutors to help with its after-school programs.

Volunteers aren’t expected to be experts or to have all the answers, but are encouraged to use available resources to work with youth to create a rich shared learning experience.

“Without volunteers we couldn’t do what we do,” says Agnieszka Valencia, volunteer co-ordinator. “The more, the merrier.”

CNIB puppy raisers prep dogs for duty

For the last seven years, Lorraine Rempel’s volunteering has gone to the dogs. The River Heights resident donates her time as a puppy raiser with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind guide dog program.

YWG Goldwings give travellers support

If you need help at the airport, just search for gold.

Since 1997, the YWG Goldwings have donated their time to welcome and assist travellers and visitors at the Richardson International Airport. The program’s 100-plus volunteers sport black sweaters with gold name tags while providing an added layer of service and support.

“They are the first people that our passengers meet when they come into the airport,” says Lisa-Marie Buccini, manager of brand and passenger experience at the Winnipeg Airports Authority. “It is a very exciting but anxious journey that a lot of our passengers go through, so to see that smiling face makes a big difference.”

Frank Masi joined the Goldwings late last month and already knows he’s found a worthwhile place to serve. An elderly woman walked through the doors during his first shift and he could tell by the look on her face that she was confused.

Coaching Volt hockey to physically challenged kids makes longtime Variety volunteer’s ‘heart full’

When it comes to Variety, the Children’s Charity of Manitoba, Dustin Ready is willing and able.

For more than a decade, Ready has volunteered for the charity, which provides programs, services and specialized equipment to children living with permanent disability or economic disadvantage.

The 43-year-old Wolseley resident has served as a board member, donated prizes to fundraisers and helped with bike camp. Today, he coaches Variety’s Volt hockey program.

“Volunteering makes my heart full, straight up, so I do a lot of it,” Ready says.

University Women’s Club encourages its members to live their best lives

Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name. For more than 100 Winnipeggers, that place is the University Women’s Club.

“From the day I walked in, I felt welcomed,” says Sue Bishop, who joined 10 years ago. “It’s a good place to be.”

Founded in 1909, the club encourages its members to live their best lives through social activities, continuing education and volunteering. The club is headquartered in Ralph Connor House, the 110-year-old riverside mansion located at 54 West Gate in Armstrong’s Point.

“It’s a place where you can come meet like-minded women, most of whom are retired and looking for something to do to keep the brain going,” says Carolynne Presser, a member since 2009.

Horsing around, with purpose

If you’re looking for Carol Stansfield, it’s possible you’ll find her at the stable with Rudi and Flower. Those are the names of the Appaloosa horse and quarter horse the lifelong animal lover has acquired in the last eight years. “What’s not to like about horses? They’re amazing animals,” Stansfield says. “They’re just so gentle and wonderful.” Seeing young people connect with horses is meaningful for Carol Stansfield, 61, who is a volunteer at Stonewall’s Urban Stable. (Supplied) The 61-year-old shares her love for horses as a volunteer at Urban Stable. Located in Stonewall, the registered charity empowers youth through […]

IG Field seeks volunteers

A big smile and a warm greeting are part of Shannon Philipow’s winning strategy on game day.

Philipow is one of more than 250 people who volunteer as fan ambassadors at IG Field. They welcome visitors into the stadium and scan tickets at Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Valour FC games.

“We want to ensure that all the fans have a great experience when they’re attending an event,” Philipow says.

She learned about the fan ambassador program while volunteering at the Manitoba Summer Games in 2016 and signed up the following year.

Putting action into inclusion becomes personal

Before retirement, Karen Menkis worked for 20 years with people with intellectual disabilities. Now, she volunteers with them.

The 70-year-old Fort Garry resident volunteers at DASCH, the Winnipeg non-profit that supports people with intellectual disabilities through residential, vocational and leisure programs.

Lori Robinson values the connections she makes during Meals on Wheels deliveries

Beep-beep, beep-beep, yeah. For Lori Robinson, volunteering is as easy as hopping in her Volkswagen Golf and hitting the road.

Robinson volunteers with Meals on Wheels, which provides home delivery of nutritious meals to anyone who cannot prepare a meal for themselves. The 58-year-old got involved with the non-profit organization two years ago.

“I basically just picked up the phone and called to see if they needed volunteers and my timing couldn’t have been better,” she recalls. “It turned out they needed someone to deliver in the River Heights area, which is where I live.”

Robinson drives to Misericordia Health Centre every Wednesday to gather meals before heading out on her lunchtime delivery route. It’s one of 13 Meals on Wheels pickup spots in the city.

New executive director hopes to build on Volunteer Manitoba’s previous success

Ashley Seymour has been named the new executive director of Volunteer Manitoba, the Winnipeg organization dedicated to promoting volunteerism across the province.

Longtime youth coach ‘building relationships,’ improving lives in Manitoba’s Indigenous community

The story of Cadin Dupasquier’s journey as a basketball coach always starts with his family.

Honest talk powers peer outreach

Considering everything in her schedule, it’s no surprise Lovleen Mathode says “sleep,” when asked what she enjoys doing in her free time.

Dylan Bromley is a longtime volunteer with the organization that makes dreams come true for critically ill children

Dylan Bromley doesn’t live in a magic lamp but he has the power to grant wishes.

Since 2017, the 28 year old has volunteered as a wish granter with Make-A-Wish Canada. The organization makes some dreams come true for children with critical illnesses.

Volunteer walks in cold to support those on streets

Alice Ramsay did something in March 2021 she describes as “totally nutty and never to be repeated” — she set a goal to walk 400 kilometres in 31 days.

‘Full-bore volunteer’ on several boards, never bored

With a half-century of community involvement under his belt, people sometimes ask Campbell McIntyre when he’s going to slow down. His answer: “I’ll let you know.”

‘Life-giving in so many ways’

Volunteers made all the difference when Emma Bullock attended St. Malo Summer Camps as a child.

Finding meaning in mentorship

A local organization that wants to bring out the best in young people is recruiting volunteers.

Big heart and generous spirit

Dan Trochim fondly recalls how his wife Elaine, who died last month, encouraged his service to the community.

Newcomer hurries hard to make curling event a success

Less than six months after moving to Winnipeg from Lagos, Nigeria, Yemi Ajibola was on the lookout for volunteer opportunities.

‘Embarrassed’ to be singled out, but honoured to do work

LISA van den Hoven’s desire to help others in need by sharing what she’s learned drives her community involvement.

Parade volunteer revels in being one of Santa’s helpers

Santa Claus is coming to town, and James Gomez is one of the people making it happen.

Embracing ‘true loving kindness’ of traditional burial preparation

There’s nothing extraordinary about why Hillel Kravetsky started volunteering. When he heard about a need in his community, he simply decided to help.