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Leadership Blog: How Volunteers Spark Change – In Us and Themselves

By Sandra Shan, Vice President, People & Culture

Behind every healthy community is a team of people who choose to show up—not for recognition, but because they care. They are volunteers—and during National Volunteer Week, taking place from April 27 to May 3, we’re shining a light on their incredible impact. 

The theme for National Volunteer Week 2025 is Volunteers Make Waves. It highlights the power, impact and importance of individual and collective volunteer efforts across Canada. Like a wave, volunteering is movement building. And this is exactly what happens when someone volunteers at the YMCA. Every volunteer contributes to our ability to strengthen our community and the health and well-being of our participants.  

Each and every day a volunteer at the YMCA, like Diane from our Midland YMCA, makes a difference. In this video Diane shares her story about volunteering to teach fitness classes for seniors, supporting them to thrive both physically and mentally through the community experience at the Y. Her inspiring story showcases the incredible impact one person can have through volunteering.  

Volunteers like Jacob S. are making a meaningful difference every day in communities like Collingwood, where their time, energy, and heart have a lasting impact.  

“Jacob brings immense happiness and joy to all the kids in his Basketball Fundamentals program at the Collingwood Y. His ability to make learning enjoyable and fun for everyone is truly remarkable. Thank you for everything you do for us, Jacob!” – Shelley Everitt, Centre Manager, Collingwood YMCA 

His dedication reminds us that one person really can help shape brighter futures—both on and off the court. 

It is with the support of volunteers like Diane and Jacob that the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka has been able to deliver programs and services for so many years. Last year, 239 individuals volunteered at the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka providing more than 20,000 hours of service. At our Y, we know that volunteering has the power to enrich the lives of those in need and those who wish to give. Giving your time can also help you maintain good physical and mental health. It can alleviate stress, keep your mind active, and give you a sense of direction. 

Volunteer opportunities at the YMCA are available for anyone 12 years of age and older. Here are a few ways that our volunteers help us to spark change and ignite potential in our community: 

  • Teaching fitness classes 
  • Helping to share the Y’s fundraising efforts with friends, family, and community members  

Why volunteer at the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka? 

  1. Be part of something bigger: Help strengthen our community from the inside out with programs and services that are specifically designed to meet the needs of our community.  
  1. Gain valuable experience: Volunteering can help you gain experience in your sector of interest and network with professionals. Volunteering gives you the chance to practice crucial workplace skills like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, project planning, task management, and organization.  
  1. Make meaningful connections: Meet people of all ages and backgrounds to strengthen your sense of belonging.  

To learn more about volunteering opportunities and how to get involved, visit www.ymcasm.ca/volunteer.  

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