We’re celebrating National Volunteer Week by shining a light on some of our incredible volunteers who embody the spirit of HOPE.
Join us in learning about Alex, one of our awesome Event Day volunteers. He comes from a family legacy of volunteering at HOPE, with his father also being part of our volunteering fam.
Questions and answers have been edited for clarity.
How long have you been volunteering at HOPE?
I have been volunteering at HOPE for three years now and this year will be my fourth.
What inspired you to join?
It’s a volunteer opportunity that gives back a lot to the community and just so happened to include a sport that I love. On top of that it is an event that my father continuously volunteers for as well.
What type of volunteer are you?
I am a volunteer who can do all sorts of tasks and approaches tasks with a positive attitude. During HOPE Volleyball SummerFest, I am usually in the data entry tent where the primary objective is making sure scores are recorded correctly. Other times, I act as a guide for people who come to the tent with questions, whether it be rules, [team] standing updates, or directions. I also help out with scorekeeping at the courts when the scorekeepers need a break.
What’s your favourite part about it?
I’m able to aid the community while watching a sport that I love. Not only that, but I’m able to meet many people with a similar mindset.
What does volunteering mean to you?
It means giving your time to aid others in whatever way possible. While some volunteering opportunities give back to the community, some are simply to create experiences for the next generation. No matter what it may be, the community is receiving some sort of positivity.
Tell me about some of your other volunteer work?
The majority of my other volunteer work has also been sports related. I usually aid in running and supervising sporting events. A prominent one was the Ottawa University Golf Championships at Hyland Golf Course in October 2022. Another significant one is an annual fundraiser for Relay4Life done at my school, St. Mother Teresa High School. Some small volunteer work I’ve done has been baking for brother and sister charities and some activities within the cadet program.
What message would you give to people thinking of volunteering with HOPE?
Go for it! HOPE is an amazing charity who aids many other charities such as the Ottawa Humane Society and Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa. With various events there will probably be one that suits your interest too. It’s a win-win, giving back and aiding the community while participating or doing something that interests you as well.
Thank you, Alex, for being a part of our HOPE family.
Join our volunteering squad! hopehelps.com/volunteer
