By Mina Mawani, President and CEO, Crohn’s and Colitis Canada
The theme of this year’s National Volunteer Week is “Celebrate the Value of Volunteering – building confidence, competence, connections and community”. While we appreciate the work you do every day, national volunteer week gives us yet another reason to celebrate the profound and lasting impact that Crohn’s and Colitis Canada volunteers have on their local communities, and on the Crohn’s and Colitis community at large.
Our 7,000 volunteers from across Canada are an exciting, dynamic, and diverse group of people who selflessly give their time and talents to improve the better the lives of everyone impacted by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Actively engaged in being the change they want to see in the world, CCC volunteers give us the capacity to expand our services and help more people than we could ever dream of reaching on our own. Whether they are chapter board members representing their communities, GoHere Ambassadors working to increase washroom access nationwide, or event day volunteers who support the fundraising needed to bring our mission to life, we are humbled and grateful for all the volunteers who stand with us to strengthen our cause.
Our volunteers come from all walks of life – from students to retirees – are working tirelessly to create fresh ideas, help us plan the best possible events, and open opportunities for sponsorships and partnerships with organizations of all sizes. You offer valuable insight and enthusiastic support, and are our trusted sounding board for new ideas and initiatives.
Every person brings something new to the table, and all of your contributions to the cause are meaningful to us. That is why we work closely with our new volunteers to determine the best role for them. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, make new friends, grow your confidence, or get that warm and fuzzy feeling that comes from knowing you’ve helped someone who may have been going through a really rough time, just know that you’ll be making a lasting impression on the 250,000 Canadians living with Crohn’s or colitis.
A huge thank you to everyone who has been involved with us in the past, to all of the wonderful people currently sharing their abilities with us, and to the generation of volunteers still to come. I know I speak on behalf of everyone here at Crohn’s and Colitis Canada when I say it is a pleasure to work with you, and we hope you share our pride in all that we’ve accomplished!
Crohn’s and Colitis Canada was founded by volunteers, and is continually fuelled by the initiative and dedication of volunteers from across the country. To find out how you can get involved in our cause, head over to our Volunteer with Us page.