Shannon Epstein: Combining philanthropy and volunteering

Shannon Epstein

Shannon Epstein is many things, including a lead volunteer with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada in Montreal. She was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2013, and started volunteering with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada that same year.

She calls her initial decision to join as a volunteer “selfish.” She says: “I was diagnosed with a chronic illness that I did not want to endure for the remainder of my life. Since starting my relationship with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, the source of my inspiration has evolved. I have met so many people with Crohn’s or colitis and better understand how it impacts us in our workplaces, family and social lives.” Shannon went on to establish “Generation C”, which engages, empowers, and captures the voices of young Canadians affected by Crohn's or colitis. Shannon has also served as co-president of the Montreal chapter of Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, where she played a key role in organizing annual Gutsy Walks and established partnerships with corporate sponsors. Recently, she was elected to the Finance, Audit, and Risk Committee by the Crohn's and Colitis Canada Board of Directors, allowing her to share her financial acumen as a CPA. Shannon is also the 2024 Montreal Guest of Honour for the annual Montreal Gala presented by Pharmacie Michael Assaraf.

Beyond volunteering with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, Shannon is a devoted mom, and harmonizes her career and family life

As Shannon says: “Most people associate philanthropy with financial support. To me, philanthropy encompasses giving through multiple facets including time, educating ourselves and advocacy, in addition to financial support.” Find out more ways you can get involved at Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. Crohn’s and Colitis Canada is grateful to all our volunteers for the wonderful ways they give the gift of time.

Find out more ways you can get involved at Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. Crohn’s and Colitis Canada is grateful to all our volunteers for the wonderful ways they give the gift of time.

  • Canada has among the highest incidence rates of Crohn's and colitis in the world.
  • 1 in 140 Canadians lives with Crohn’s or colitis.
  • Families new to Canada are developing these diseases for the first time.
  • Incidence of Crohn’s in Canadian kids under 10 has doubled since 1995.
  • People are most commonly diagnosed before age 30.

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