The National Volunteer Week is an opportunity for non-profit organizations to appreciate the work of their volunteers Canada-wide. I particularly see this week as a chance to inspire other people to engage in their community, share and connect with others.

You’re probably thinking that I am so pro-volunteerism because of my job at ISSofBC. You guessed right! Before moving to Canada, I would never consider working for free. Volunteerism was an activity only possible after retiring or winning the lottery! However, since my work requires me to engage, train and encourage volunteers, I realized back in 2008 that I had to roll up my sleeves and start my volunteer career in Vancouver.

After 2 years working as volunteer at different non-profit organizations, I can tell you that it is fun! From TV Host to dog handler, I’ve tried it all! I am currently balancing my full-time job at ISSofBC with my online communications coordination work at Vancouver Latin American Film Festival, and a pet visitor (with Ipanema) position at Yaletown House. I can proudly say that every single volunteer opportunity brought more opportunities to my life than I could imagine when I first accepted then. The feeling of accomplishment and both professional and personal connections that I gained from my unpaid positions have been working as a fair trade for me.

If you are excited about getting involved in the community, you can learn more about the organizations before you commit to a specific position by attending the Timeraiser Vancouver on September 23rd. If you can’t wait until September, Go Volunteer has been the source of all my volunteer positions and will probably have something for you as well!

Are you currently a volunteer at a non-profit organization? Where? What is the best story you have to share so far?